IACP@Work: Celebrating Heroes, Honoring Excellence

IACP Awards

Large group of law enforcement professionals posed indoors in two rows, wearing formal uniforms and suits, holding awards in front of a backdrop with IACP 40 Under 40 logos.The IACP believes in celebrating the heroes behind the badge—those who go above and beyond to serve, protect, and innovate in their communities.

From acts of extraordinary bravery to groundbreaking leadership and evidence-based, innovative policing strategies, the IACP honors excellence across the profession with a wide range of prestigious awards.

Whether it’s the annual Leadership Awards, Police Officer of the Year, Trooper of the Year, Indian Country Officer of the Year, Instructor of the Year, or the 40 Under 40 Award program, the IACP’s awards shine a spotlight on those making a difference.

From acts of extraordinary bravery to groundbreaking leadership and evidence-based, innovative policing strategies, the IACP honors excellence across the profession with a wide range of prestigious awards.

IACP members and nonmembers are eligible to submit nominations and be nominated for all awards. Policing professionals (sworn or professional staff) and all levels of agencies may be recognized.

There are more than 30 different IACP Leadership Awards that encompass categories such as community safety, investigations, technology, and traffic safety, to name a few. As an example, one of the Leadership Awards is the Leadership in Human and Civil Rights Award, which recognizes agencies and individuals who have demonstrated leadership in protecting fundamental rights. This award showcases the achievements of agencies and individuals in protecting and promoting human and civil rights to enhance public trust and maintain cooperation and partnerships with communities. Past agency winners have included the Massachusetts Municipal Police Training Committee in 2020 and the Calaveras County, California, Sheriff’s Office in 2018.

The IACP/Axon Police Officer of the Year Award showcases officers who have displayed heroism in life-threatening or high-risk situations while protecting the public, upholding justice, and displaying unwavering commitment to their communities.

Every day, across the United States, state troopers demonstrate bravery, courage, leadership, and professionalism while working to keep their communities safe. While this dedication frequently goes unnoticed, the IACP is proud to recognize their exceptional efforts through the IACP/Motorola Solutions Trooper of the Year Award. During the annual IACP Division Midyear meeting, four regional finalists are honored, and one finalist is announced as the overall Trooper of the Year.

The IACP 40 Under 40 Award recognizes 40 policing professionals under the age of 40 from around the world who demonstrate leadership and exemplify commitment to the field. The 40 finalists are honored during the IACP Annual Conference and Exposition.

With so many opportunities to recognize excellence, do you know someone who deserves to be recognized? Nominate them today and help us celebrate the best in policing.

From acts of extraordinary bravery to groundbreaking leadership and evidence-based, innovative policing strategies, the IACP honors excellence across the profession with a wide range of prestigious awards.d