Mackenzie Ferrara
Adel,IA
Summary
Accomplished law enforcement professional with extensive experience, excelling in community engagement, and training coordination. Established in conflict resolution and emergency management. Recognized for enhancing public relations, and fostering positive community relations by developing impactful outreach programs to encourage growth and unity.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Law Enforcement Officer/Sergeant
City of Waukee
08.2007 - Current
- Conducted thorough investigations of various incidents, documenting evidence, witness statements, and offender interviews
- Public Information Officer for Waukee Police Department.
- Five year assignment as School Resource Officer for Waukee Community Schools.
- Promoted to Patrol Sergeant in September 2015.
- Transitioned to Community Relations Sergeant in August 2017.
- Managed community outreach programs to enhance relationships between law enforcement and residents, promoting trust and engagement.
- Promoted a positive image of law enforcement officers among youths by engaging them with educational programs on safety awareness at schools or community centers.
- Transitioned to SRO, Community Outreach, and CIT (Crisis intervention Team) Sergeant for the department.
- Coordinator for departments Peer Support Team.
- Five years as a Hostage Negotiator for Suburban Emergency Response Team.
- Oversees the departments training calendar and duties.
Law Enforcement Officer
City of Urbandale
07.2001 - 05.2005
- A sworn police officer with the City of Urbandale. Serving primarily as a patrol officer, answering calls for service, stopping drivers who committed violations, and upheld the laws for the state of Iowa. I was a certified RADD Instructor, CPR Instructor, and Mentor Officer for the department.
Education
Certified State of Iowa Peace Officer -
Iowa Law Enforcement Academy
Johnston, IA12-2001
Bachelor of Science - Child and Family Services, Criminal Justice (minor)
Iowa State University
Ames, IA08-2000
Skills
- Federal, state and local laws knowledge
- Effective communication
- Decision making
- Emergency management
- Conflict resolution
- Public relations
- Training coordination
- Community engagement
- Problem solving
- Cultural awareness
- Leadership
Accomplishments
- First female ever promoted at Waukee Police Department 2015.
- Completed Northwestern University Police Staff and Command 10-week program 2020.
- Officer of the Year Award 2021.
- Chief’s Recognition Award/School Programs 2022.
- Governor's Safety Safety Bureau Award 2025.
Timeline
Law Enforcement Officer/Sergeant
City of Waukee
08.2007 - Current
Law Enforcement Officer
City of Urbandale
07.2001 - 05.2005
Certified State of Iowa Peace Officer -
Iowa Law Enforcement Academy
Bachelor of Science - Child and Family Services, Criminal Justice (minor)
Iowa State University