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GPTC Law Enforcement Academy Director graduates from FBI academy
4-22-13-Maj.-Harry-McCann-Jr.---Dir.-of-GPTC-Law-Enforcement-Academy---FBI-Academy-Graduate
Maj. Harry McCann, Jr.

Georgia Piedmont Technical College announced GPTC's Law Enforcement Academy Director, Maj. Harry C. McCann, Jr., recently graduated from the FBI National Academy Program.

McCann, a native of Covington and former Conyers Police officer, was among 268 law enforcement officers who participated in the 252nd session of the National Academy Program, which is internationally known for its academic excellence. He is the first law enforcement academy director in the state of Georgia to graduate from the program.

The program offers 10 weeks of advanced investigative, management, and fitness training to U.S. and international law enforcement leaders. Participants take undergraduate and/or graduate college courses in law, behavioral science, forensic science, understanding terrorism/terrorist mindsets, leadership development, communication, and health/fitness.

Participation in the program is by invitation only, through a nomination process. McCann, a 20–year veteran in law enforcement, was recommended by Beverly Thomas, chair of Georgia Piedmont Tech’s Health, Public Safety and Security Division. McCann, who also earned a master’s in public administrative degree from Columbus State University in Columbus, Ga., this past December, joined GPTC in 2008. Prior to working at GPTC, McCann worked at the City of Conyers Police Department, where he launched his professional career.   

FBI National Academy training is provided at the U.S. Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Va., by the FBI Academy staff, special agents and other staff members holding advanced degrees. Many are recognized internationally in their fields. Less than one percent of the country’s law enforcement officers are graduates of the academy – of which McCann says he’s proud to be a part.

The 252nd session included men and women from 49 states, 27 international countries, four military organizations, and five federal civilian organizations. A total of 46,610 graduates now represent the FBI National Academy since it began in July 1935. More than 29,000 are still active in law enforcement work.