- Graphic Design
- Youth mentor, providing guidance and support to empower the next generation of leaders
- I like working with my hands and fixing things
- Playing Sports
- Creating digital artwork using software like Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate
- Volunteering
- Blogging/Vlogging
- Music
- I have a passion for photography and editing photos
- Video Gaming
- Communication
- Personal Development and Self-Improvement
Zachary Lara
Santa Teresa,NM
Summary
Dynamic Public Information Officer with a proven track record at Santa Teresa Law Enforcement, excelling in community outreach and media relations. Skilled in press release writing and crisis communications, I fostered strong relationships and enhanced public engagement, leading to increased participation in safety programs and initiatives.
Developed critical skills in public safety environment, including effective communication, conflict resolution, and leadership. Demonstrates strong analytical abilities and capacity to remain calm under pressure, seeking opportunities to transition into new field. Looking to leverage these skills in collaborative and dynamic work environment.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Public Information Officer
Santa Teresa Law Enforcement
Santa Teresa, NM
08.2023 - 05.2026
- Developed and disseminated press releases to enhance public awareness of law enforcement initiatives.
- Managed social media platforms, engaging community members and promoting transparency in operations.
- Coordinated with local media outlets to ensure accurate reporting of public safety information.
- Organized community outreach programs, fostering strong relationships between law enforcement and residents.
Law Enforcement Cadet
Santa Teresa Law Enforcement Program
Santa Teresa, NM
08.2023 - 05.2026
- Assisted in training new cadets, fostering teamwork and enhancing overall squad performance.
- Led community outreach initiatives, improving public relations and building trust with local residents.
- Coordinated with local agencies on joint operations, maximizing resource efficiency and operational effectiveness.
- Promoted safety programs during community events, resulting in increased participation and awareness.
- Cultivated a collaborative environment among cadets, enhancing teamwork skills and fostering a sense of unity within the squad.
- Conducted Internal Affairs meetings.
- Public Information Officer provided public information to the public about our program.
- Graphic Design made patches and logos for our team
- Implemented training protocols for new recruits, leading to measurable improvements in operational readiness and squad performance.
- CSI Photographer
- Patrol Division
Student Media Assistant
Santa Teresa Television
Santa Teresa, NM
08.2024 - 05.2026
- Lead photography and videography workshops, enhancing skills of over 100 participants monthly.
- Coordinate and manage event logistics, ensuring seamless execution and timely communication.
- Guide a creative team, fostering collaboration and innovative content production.
- Develop and implement educational strategies, resulting in improved participant engagement.
- Streamline scheduling processes, increasing team efficiency and reducing planning time.
- I also edit our videos using Adobe Premiere Pro, and I post those videos to our social media.
- Fostered a collaborative environment among student media teams, enhancing creative output and engagement across various projects.
Education
High School Diploma -
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa, NM05-2026
Skills
- Public engagement
- Community outreach
- Communications strategies
- Photography
- Press release writing
- Media relations
- Crisis communications
- Integrity and honesty
- Conflict de-escalation
- Relationship building and management
- Report writing
- Planning and coordination
- Officer training
- Certified in CPR and First Aid
- Advanced trauma care certification holder
- Stop the bleed certification
Accomplishments
- Became the first public information officer.
- Supervised and trained 14 cadets.
- First place in domestic violence for three years straight.
- Second place in foot pursuit in 2025.
- Second place for mental health crisis.
- Third place for building search
- First place for Active Shooter
Affiliations
Dona ana county sheriffs office
Sunland park police department
MVRDA
New mexico state police communications
New mexico state police
Otero county sheriffs office
Certification
- First aid and CPR
- stop the bleed
- advanced trauma care
Interests
Timeline
Student Media Assistant
Santa Teresa Television
08.2024 - 05.2026
Public Information Officer
Santa Teresa Law Enforcement
08.2023 - 05.2026
Law Enforcement Cadet
Santa Teresa Law Enforcement Program
08.2023 - 05.2026
High School Diploma -
Santa Teresa