Joseph Kluh
La Plata,MD
Summary
Dynamic law enforcement leader with over 28 years of progressive experience in patrol, operations, training, and executive-level command. Expertise in leading complex operations, managing multi-unit divisions, and overseeing high-risk tactical and security initiatives. Proficient in budget oversight, organizational management, interagency coordination, and the development of training and operational programs. Committed to establishing strategic direction, ensuring regulatory compliance, leading emergency preparedness efforts, and fostering strong partnerships with internal departments, labor organizations, allied agencies, and the public. Upholds professionalism, accountability, equity, and public trust in high-stakes environments.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Police Major
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department
Headquarters, National, And Dulles Commands
01.2019 - Current
- Promoted equitable policy application and ensured fair delivery of police services to enhance community trust.
- Directed daily activities of over 100 employees, fostering a collaborative environment and driving operational success.
- Analyzed and monitored budgetary performance metrics to enhance the execution of large-scale operations and organizational initiatives.
- Oversaw site operations by maintaining a visible command presence through frequent visits and direct engagement with teams to ensure performance standards and operational integrity.
- Provided leadership and command authority over various commands of the Police Department, with accountability for all operational, administrative, fiscal, and personnel functions.
- Exhibited strong capacity for learning and adapting to new concepts, ensuring effective application in various contexts.
- Executed and supervised the development of strategic plans addressing staffing needs, budget constraints, equipment procurement, facilities enhancement, and technology advancements.
- Served as Acting Deputy Chief and Chief of Police in their absence, as assigned.
Special Response Team (SRT) Commander
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
Headquarters, Reagan, And Dulles Commands
01.2015 - 01.2020
- - Led SWAT/SRT operations and training.
- - Managed budget, documentation, and operational planning.
- - Oversaw high-level protection details and large-scale security events.
Police Lieutenant
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department
Headquarters, National, And Dulles Command
2012 - 01.2019
- Achieved improved record accuracy and efficiency in training division through effective management of departmental documentation. Enhanced property section operations by implementing best practices for record organization and retrieval.
- Implemented and coordinated firearms training sessions and range management to optimize skill development and operational efficiency.
- Advised major's and senior Airports Authority Police Department leadership on complex, high-risk, and cross-organizational operational and administrative matters impacting Authority-wide public safety and continuity of operations.
- Supervised NVCJA training operations, focusing on pre- and post-academy training effectiveness and meticulous documentation of training records.
- Oversaw over 20 comprehensive operational strategies to elevate airport efficiency and enhance safety measures.
- Supported the Police Department and Airports Authority during judicial proceedings by providing reliable testimony and assisting in case preparation as needed.
- Engaged with cross-functional teams to identify and implement improvements in workflow efficiency and resource utilization.
- Coordinated project timelines and deliverables, maintaining consistency with organizational goals.
- Developed and implemented mentorship programs for junior staff, emphasizing continuous improvement and career advancement.
- Orchestrated collaboration among various departments to enhance strategies for case management and optimize resource allocation.
Acting Director of Public Safety Communication
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
Reagan National Airport
2014 - 2015
- Oversaw operations of public safety communications center consisting of over 60 employees, to optimize emergency response coordination as the Acting Director.
- Supervised public safety protocols to ensure alignment with federal regulations and industry standards.
- Assessed safety needs and established emergency response plans to ensure effective safety protocols across all airport facilities.
- Conducted thorough assessments and established emergency management protocols to mitigate risks and enhance community safety during natural disasters.
- Implemented rigorous oversight measures to guarantee compliance with public safety regulations at federal, state, and local levels, fostering a culture of safety and accountability.
- Implemented strategies to promote accountability within the department, ensuring all staff maintained high ethical standards in their commitment to public safety.
Police Sergeant
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
Headquarters, National, And Dulles Commands
2004 - 2012
- Directed law enforcement personnel in daily operations, ensuring strict compliance with regulatory requirements and safety measures.
- Assessed training needs and coordinated programs for over 100 officers, enhancing overall team performance and readiness for operational challenges.
- Led thorough investigative processes, guaranteeing evidence integrity and strict compliance with legal requirements.
- Established partnerships with local agencies to strengthen resource management and response during emergencies.
- Developed and implemented security strategies for large gatherings, working in conjunction with event organizers to maintain a secure environment.
- Managed incident command operations in emergencies, overseeing response strategies to safeguard community welfare.
- Designed and facilitated realistic training simulations, preparing officers to effectively respond to a wide array of real-world situations.
- Analyzed staffing needs and coordinated schedules to achieve adequate coverage while controlling overtime expenses.
- Provided strategic mentorship to junior officers, focusing on best practices in policing and professional development pathways.
Education
Master of Arts - Public Safety
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA01-2025
Graduate Certificate - Criminal Justice Education
FBI National Academy Session 286
Quantico, VA01-2023
Bachelor of Arts - Criminology And Criminal Justice
University of Maryland, College Park
College Park, MD01-1994
Skills
- Strategic Executive Management
- Decisive Leadership
- Public Safety Management
- Strategic Planning
- Emergency Incident Coordination
- Training Program Development
- Budget & Resource Management
- Interagency Coordination
- Supervision of Investigative Activities
- Commitment to Ethics, Integrity, Transparency, and Public Trust
Accomplishments
Led a team of officers at the United States Capitol on January 06, 2021, when called upon for mutual aid.
Created an inter-agency detail named Operation Guardian, which brought together local, federal, and civilian agencies to work together at the National and the Dulles command.
Timeline
Police Major
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department
01.2019 - Current
Special Response Team (SRT) Commander
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
01.2015 - 01.2020
Police Lieutenant
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department
2012 - 01.2019
Acting Director of Public Safety Communication
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
2014 - 2015
Police Sergeant
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
2004 - 2012
Master of Arts - Public Safety
University of Virginia
Graduate Certificate - Criminal Justice Education
FBI National Academy Session 286
Bachelor of Arts - Criminology And Criminal Justice
University of Maryland, College Park
Leadership Credentials
- Special Operations Command Major
- Special Response Team Commander
- Special Operations Division Commander
- Training Division Commander
- Acting Manager, Public Safety Communication Center
- Professional Executive Leadership School, Richmond, VA
- Institute for Leadership and Changing Times, Virginia Tech
- Prince George's County SWAT School