#ILEETALive with Chief (retired) Bill Harvey
In this episode, Brian, Todd, and Joe have a conversation with Retired Chief of Police Bill Harvey, covering a range of topics that highlight his extensive experience and wisdom in law enforcement, leadership, and training. Chief Harvey, a seasoned officer and instructor, shares insights from his career, which spans roles from military police to police chief and prolific writer, with over 500 published articles. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, writing, and communication skills for law enforcement professionals, encouraging young officers to document their experiences and knowledge to contribute to the profession’s collective wisdom.
Chief Harvey discusses classroom management strategies for trainers, advising instructors to prioritize student engagement, adaptability, and the development of young officers as future leaders. He underscores the significance of leadership training early in officers’ careers to prepare them for supervisory roles. Harvey also advocates for team-building and collaboration in training environments, suggesting that agencies send entire training units to conferences like ILEETA for maximum benefit.
A staunch proponent of interpersonal communication, Harvey stresses the value of de-escalation and people skills in daily policing, advocating for leadership and communication courses as essential components of professional development. He also shares personal anecdotes about his journey into training, inspired by a childhood experience, and reflects on the role of supportive relationships, both personal and professional, in navigating the stresses of law enforcement.
Finally, Harvey closes with a heartfelt reminder of the true purpose of law enforcement: to serve the public. He highlights the profound impact officers can have on individuals during their darkest moments, urging them to give their best to those they serve. The discussion concludes with acknowledgments of Harvey’s influence, a reminder of the upcoming ILEETA conference, and a call to action for members to submit their proposals.