Will Burleson
Cumberland Furnace,TN
Summary
Professional Field Training Officer and Patrol Deputy with combat proven leadership skills capable of decision making and performing in varying environments and high stress situations. More than 20 years of military experience managing personnel, programs, and equipment efficiently. Effective trainer and mentor of subordinates. Highly adaptable to changing technology and environments.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Field Training Officer
Dickson County Sheriff’s Office
Charlotte, TN
11.2025 - Current
- Conducted training on Tennessee Criminal and Traffic Code as well as department policy, procedures, and best practices for newly hired patrol deputies.
- Evaluated trainee performance through direct observation and supervision, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
- Documented performance evaluations by completing Daily Observation Reports at the end of each shift.
- Served as a positive role model and mentor for ride-alongs and new deputies, demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and commitment to public service at all times.
- Conducted regular assessments to gauge trainee competence in critical skills, adjusting training plans as needed to address gaps in knowledge or ability.
- Promoted positive interactions between trainees and experienced officers in order to foster a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork throughout the department.
Patrol Deputy
Dickson County Sheriff’s Office
Charlotte, TN
11.2023 - Current
- Enhanced public safety by patrolling assigned areas, responding to emergencies, and enforcing laws and regulations.
- Prepared detailed reports on incidents and arrests for further legal processing.
- Assisted in investigations by collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.
- Responded to emergency calls, prioritizing urgent situations effectively.
- Provided backup support for fellow deputies during high-risk situations, ensuring successful outcomes while minimizing risk of injury or property damage.
- Performed first aid or CPR when necessary, providing critical assistance during medical emergencies until paramedics arrived on scene.
- Utilized clear communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with citizens.
Aviation Safety Officer
United States Army
Worldwide
09.2019 - Current
- Manager of Safety Program for fleet of aircraft worth more than 320 million dollars.
- Managed safety training program and conducted training and written examinations to assess competency of over 60 pilots, operators, and mechanics.
- Chosen as primary Mission Briefing Officer responsible for reviewing pilot's proposed mission plans for safety and adherence to rules and regulations.
- Investigated aviation as well as ground accidents and presented findings and recommendations to leadership to prevent future accidents within organization.
- Monitored, planned, and conducted periodic inspections of operations to ensure compliance with safety policy.
- Prepared and maintained detailed inspection, investigation and certification records and reports.
Air Mission Commander
United States Army
Worldwide
11.2019 - 10.2023
- Conducted command and control of multi-ship flight missions during complex combat missions and training exercises nationwide.
- Synchronized Attack Helicopter Teams with Air Force fixed wing and civilian aircraft during multiple joint operations in shared airspace.
- Directed and controlled weapon and sensor operations and distributed duties between flight crew members for max efficiency and support of military ground units.
- Successfully commanded many different teams in challenging scenarios and environments to accomplish various different missions.
- Responsible for safe maneuver and synchronization of multiple aircraft in formation flights during low level and high altitude flight.
- Oversaw mission planning, rehearsals, and pre-mission briefings for deliberate missions to ensure safety and success.
- Executed all Flight Lead and Air Mission Commander missions with no safety incidents or near misses.
Infantry Squad Leader
United States Army
Worldwide
01.2009 - 04.2013
- Supervised 9 infantry soldiers during tactical training and combat operations.
- Managed personnel to insure appropriate manpower for operations while facilitating requests for vacation and time off.
- Conducted quarterly performance counseling and annual evaluations of subordinate Non-Commissioned Officers.
- Recommended and executed non-judicial punishment and disciplinary action as necessary.
- Led squad in tactical operations, ensuring mission success through effective planning and execution.
- Trained and mentored junior soldiers, fostering tactical skill development, physical fitness, and team cohesion.
- Coordinated logistics for equipment and supplies, optimizing resource allocation for missions.
Education
Police Academy
Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy
Nashville, TN09.2024
Warrior Leader Course
Non-Commissioned Officer School
Fort Bragg, NC2007
Basic Non-Commissioned Officer Course (Leadership)
Non-Commissioned Officer Academy
Fort Bragg, NC2009
Aviation Safety Officer - Accident Investigation, Accident Prevention
Combat Readiness Center
Fort Rucker, AL2019
Apache Helicopter Pilot - Aviation
US Army Flight School
Fort Rucker, AL10.2014
Officer Commission -
Warrant Officer Candidate School
Fort Rucker, AL2013
High School Diploma -
Gallia Academy High School
Gallipolis, OH05.2003
Skills
- Combat Proven Leadership
- Situational Awareness
- Personnel Management
- Performing under pressure
- Problem-Solving
- Multitasking Abilities
- Excellent Communication
- Teamwork
Certification
- Tennessee POST Certification
- Field Training Officer Certification
- Basic SWAT Operator Certification
- FAA Commercial Pilot Rotorcraft Certificate
- FAA Instrument Helicopter Rating
- OSHA 511
Accomplishments
Highest academic average in Basic Police Academy Class 2049.
Deputy of the Year 2025.
Timeline
Field Training Officer
Dickson County Sheriff’s Office
11.2025 - Current
Patrol Deputy
Dickson County Sheriff’s Office
11.2023 - Current
Air Mission Commander
United States Army
11.2019 - 10.2023
Aviation Safety Officer
United States Army
09.2019 - Current
Infantry Squad Leader
United States Army
01.2009 - 04.2013
Police Academy
Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy
Warrior Leader Course
Non-Commissioned Officer School
Basic Non-Commissioned Officer Course (Leadership)
Non-Commissioned Officer Academy
Aviation Safety Officer - Accident Investigation, Accident Prevention
Combat Readiness Center
Apache Helicopter Pilot - Aviation
US Army Flight School
Officer Commission -
Warrant Officer Candidate School
High School Diploma -
Gallia Academy High School