Assiniboine grads step into public safety careers

Three Assiniboine College public safety program graduates were prepared to launch their careers in policing and community safety on Friday morning as they crossed the stage at the college’s Victoria East Campus.

The ceremony, which was part of the Manitoba Public Safety Institute’s annual Final Inspection, recognized students who have completed the eight-month program designed for roles in policing, corrections and other justice-related fields.

Michelle Omand, one of the graduates, said the day was both emotional and rewarding.

“It means a lot because we pushed ourselves to complete it,” she told the Sun. “We had our hardest days, stressful days, and it just took a lot to get through this.”

Omand, originally from Cross Lake, said the small class size made the experience even more meaningful.

“I’m really glad everyone in my class got to be together and graduate with all our certificates,” she said.

Having previously studied culinary arts, Omand said her passion for helping people led her toward public safety.

“I love to help people … That’s why I went into policing,” she said. “I plan to apply to the Brandon Police Service and the Manitoba First Nations Police Service.

Mason Vinthers, another graduate, said the program was more hands-on than he expected.

“We did a lot of practical experience,” he said. “You learn a lot faster by doing instead of just being in the classroom.”

For Vinthers, graduating represents both achievement and motivation.

“It’s another hurdle over my life that I got over,” he said. “Something I can tell my kids about someday.”

He will begin work as a community safety officer with Victoria Beach Police this summer, with plans to pursue a policing career afterward.

Osahon Ebose said the training was both challenging and fulfilling.

“It was very engaging (and) very challenging as well. But because it’s what I want to do, it became enjoyable,” he told the Sun.

Originally from Nigeria, Ebose said his decision to enter public safety was rooted in a desire to give back.

“When I got to Canada in 2023, I wanted to do something where I could give back to the community that has helped me,” he said.

Ebose has already secured a position with the Manitoba Sheriff’s Service and is set to begin training on Monday.

“To have my family here celebrating me … It’s one of the best days of my life,” he said.

The public safety program celebrated a total of 14 graduates across three final inspection ceremonies held this academic year, with 11 graduates moving on to the Brandon Police Service, the college said in a news release on Friday.

Brandon Police Service Chief Tyler Bates said the program continues to be a valuable pipeline for recruits.

“They certainly have a good base that is applicable and has produced a lot of our staff,” he told the Sun. “More than 60 current members are graduates of the college.”

Bates said the graduates are highly sought after across the sector.

“It’s a competitive industry out there, with lots of employers after the skill-set they acquire,” he said.

Assiniboine president Mark Frison praised the program’s real-world focus.

“Our graduates have completed a demanding, hands-on program that emphasizes real-world experience, accountability and service,” he said in the release. “They are fully prepared to support and protect communities across the province.”

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