Michael Praska

Providing safety and security for the general public is of upmost importance. I assist in facilitating positive change in the lives of adults in custody (AICS). Holding offenders accountable for their actions, role modeling and helping to reduce the risk of future criminal behavior by promoting the department mission and goals. Keeping violent offenders behind the secure walls and bars to protect the innocent. To do this, I work in a team setting, collaborating with others to maintain order within the institutions, enforcing rules and regulations while providing care to ensure safety and security. I am a leader among my peers and when needed, I use strategic thinking to solve problems without the need of supervisor involvement. I ensure AICs are orderly and obey guidelines and standards while monitoring their activities and supervising their work assignments. I perform tier checks, settle disputes, enforce discipline, and conduct searches of AICs and their living quarters for contraband. I have experience working in Special Management Housing, including Disciplinary Segregation Unit, Behavioral Health Unit, and Mental Health Infirmary. I update segregation data entry files and track segregation release dates for AICs. I utilize verbal communication skills to de-escalate situations and direct resources. I am adaptable and assist with tasks to make the daily operations of supervisors and management easier. I effectively communicate with Supervisors, Behavioral Health Counselors and fellow Co-Workers through outlook, professional radio transmissions and phone conversations. I also write misconduct and memorandums when needed using Microsoft Word.

In 2025, I became a Range Master and Firearms instructor. As a Firearms instructor, I am responsible for maintaining a safe firing range, teaching safe and proper weapons handling techniques, conducting weapons inspections, fixing weapons malfunctions as they occur and guiding staff members to successful completion of firearms training. I am also responsible for the proper check out and return procedures of the firearms, and ensuring they are correctly inventoried prior to and after use.

In 2023, I was selected to be a member of the Oregon State Penitentiary Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. I successfully completed SWAT Operators Course (SOC) in April 2024 and continue to be a valuable member of the SWAT team. As part of the SWAT team I became Taser User Certified and certified in other less-lethal equipment. I have also received instructor certifications in Krav Maga, Ballistic Shield, and Low-Light. I was also selected to attend an Oregon State Police training in Mobile Response Team (MRT) training.

While being apart of the SWAT team, I receive annual Armed in the Community training. I have completed numerous hospital watches and emergency room visits. While on Armed Escorts, I understand the importance for customer service and professionalism. While I am in uniform and in public I am the face of the Oregon Department of Corrections. I must conduct myself in a manner that is above reproach while also maintaining safety and security for the public, my coworkers, the AIC, and myself.

Providing safety and security for the public is my highest priority. As a Correctional Officer with the Oregon Department of Corrections, I play a critical role in maintaining a safe, secure, and orderly correctional environment while supporting the department's mission of promoting positive change in the lives of Adults in Custody (AICs). I hold offenders accountable for their actions while serving as a professional role model, encouraging lawful behavior and helping reduce the risk of future criminal conduct through fairness, consistency, and respect.

I work collaboratively with fellow correctional staff to maintain order within the institution by enforcing policies, procedures, and regulations while ensuring the safety and well-being of staff, AICs, and visitors. I am recognized as a leader among my peers and regularly use sound judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to resolve issues independently when appropriate. My responsibilities include supervising AICs, monitoring housing units and work assignments, conducting routine security checks, resolving disputes, enforcing disciplinary procedures, and conducting searches of individuals and living quarters to detect and prevent the introduction of contraband.

I have experience working in specialized housing assignments, including the Disciplinary Segregation Unit, Behavioral Health Unit, and Mental Health Infirmary. In these assignments, I monitor high-risk populations, maintain accurate segregation records, track release dates, and ensure compliance with institutional policies. I rely on strong communication and interpersonal skills to de-escalate tense situations, direct available resources, and maintain a safe and professional environment. I communicate effectively with supervisors, behavioral health professionals, and coworkers through professional radio communications, telephone conversations, email, and written documentation. I also prepare detailed misconduct reports, memorandums, and other official reports using Microsoft Office applications.

In 2025, I earned certification as a Range Master and Firearms Instructor. In this role, I am responsible for maintaining a safe firing range, instructing staff in the safe handling and operation of department firearms, conducting weapon inspections, troubleshooting malfunctions, and ensuring personnel successfully complete required firearms qualifications. I am also accountable for the proper issuance, inventory, and secure return of department firearms and equipment while maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols.

In 2023, I was selected to join the Oregon State Penitentiary Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team, a position awarded to officers who demonstrate exceptional professionalism, tactical ability, and leadership. After successfully completing the SWAT Operators Course (SOC) in April 2024, I have continued to serve as an active member of the team. Through this assignment, I became certified as a Taser User and received certifications in additional less-lethal systems, Krav Maga instruction, Ballistic Shield instruction, and Low-Light tactics. I was also selected to attend Oregon State Police Mobile Response Team (MRT) training, further expanding my tactical response capabilities.

As a SWAT team member, I complete annual Armed in the Community training and regularly participate in armed escorts, hospital watches, and emergency room security assignments. These responsibilities require a high level of professionalism, sound decision-making, and effective communication while interacting with medical staff, law enforcement partners, and members of the public. I recognize that, while in uniform, I represent the Oregon Department of Corrections and am committed to conducting myself with integrity, professionalism, and accountability. I strive to uphold the department's values while ensuring the safety and security of the public, my fellow officers, the Adults in Custody under my supervision, and myself.

As a Security Officer with Cascade Security Solutions, my primary responsibilities include protecting assigned properties, maintaining a safe and secure environment, and providing a visible security presence for businesses and the public. My duties include conducting routine patrols, providing security escorts for employees, responding to incidents, de-escalating conflicts, and serving as a reliable witness by accurately observing and documenting events. I am expected to approach every situation with sound judgment, professionalism, and the training necessary to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

I work closely with security personnel from multiple businesses within the complex, providing assistance and backup when needed to ensure a coordinated response to incidents. I regularly interact with members of the public, listening to their concerns, answering questions, and working to promote a safe and welcoming environment throughout the mall and surrounding properties.

An important part of my role is preparing detailed, accurate, and objective incident reports that may be used for internal investigations or legal proceedings, including court cases. Because of the importance of these reports, I maintain a high level of attention to detail and ensure all documentation is factual, thorough, and completed in a timely manner.

Professional development and continuous training are essential aspects of working in the security field. I actively seek opportunities to improve my knowledge and skills by applying feedback from supervisors, participating in ongoing training, and evaluating my own performance after incidents. I take constructive criticism seriously and regularly reflect on how situations could have been handled more effectively. I also consult with supervisors to gain additional insight and identify areas for improvement. By maintaining a commitment to learning, adapting, and applying new techniques, I continue to grow as a security professional and provide the highest level of service to my employer, clients, and the community.

As a Seal Coat Crew Member, I was responsible for traveling to remote job sites, often for extended periods, while working safely and efficiently to complete projects on schedule. This role required collaborating closely with crew members in challenging weather conditions to deliver a high-quality finished product that met customer expectations.

Each day, I coordinated with the crew to ensure the proper equipment, materials, and supplies were prepared for the job. I worked alongside team members to inspect trucks, machinery, and tools, ensuring they were operating safely and efficiently. We performed daily equipment inspections to identify mechanical issues and potential safety hazards, helping to maintain a safe and productive work environment.

Customer satisfaction was a key priority in my role. I communicated professionally with customers, listened carefully to their concerns, and worked with the crew to ensure each project was completed to a high standard. By maintaining open communication and focusing on quality workmanship, I helped deliver results that encouraged repeat business and reinforced the company's reputation.

During downtime, I proactively sought opportunities to improve the efficiency and organization of the worksite. I cleaned and maintained tankers, equipment, and tools, organized materials, and completed preventative maintenance to keep operations running smoothly. By taking initiative and maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment, I contributed to the company's commitment to quality, professionalism, and exceptional customer service.

At Fred Meyer, we take pride in providing friendly, professional, and satisfying customer service that encourages customers to return for the quality products and exceptional shopping experience we offer. Our mission is for every customer to leave the store with a smile, and I strive to embody that mission in every interaction.

From the moment customers enter the store, I greet them with warmth and professionalism to ensure they feel welcomed and valued. I take the time to engage in meaningful conversations, listen carefully to their needs, and provide honest recommendations and product knowledge to help them make informed purchasing decisions. My goal is to create a positive shopping experience that builds customer trust and loyalty.

I work closely with my coworkers to maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked department. Through teamwork and communication, we ensure the store is inviting, products are readily available, and customers receive prompt assistance whenever needed.

I also take pride in training and mentoring new team members. By introducing them to Fred Meyer's values and service expectations, setting clear training goals, and providing ongoing guidance and support, I help prepare them to deliver the same high standard of customer service and operational excellence.

During slower periods, I proactively look for ways to improve the efficiency and appearance of the department. Whether stocking shelves, identifying low or out-of-stock items, rotating merchandise, improving displays, or maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the sales floor, I take initiative to ensure the store remains customer-ready at all times. By consistently supporting my team and maintaining high standards, I contribute to delivering the exceptional shopping experience that Fred Meyer customers expect.