Mark McWilliams, a familiar face in the Basic Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Programs at Mayland Community College, will serve as the Coordinator for the BLET Program at the college.

McWilliams has taught part time for Mayland for the last 19 years.

"I have taught numerous classes in BLET, Criminal Justice curriculum classes, as well as law enforcement in-service classes at MCC and various other schools throughout North Carolina," said McWilliams. "During those years, I have accumulated several instructor certifications, and enjoy assisting students in achieving their goals."

McWilliams has also worked in the criminal justice field for 23 years, primarily involved in law enforcement, but also with corrections and with various community colleges.

As Coordinator of the BLET program, McWilliams says the program will continue to produce graduate cadets the public can rely on, who are knowledgeable, caring, public servants.

"I feel that as the coordinator of the BLET program, it is an opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of many people in our communities," said McWilliams. "I want to ensuring that Mayland Community College BLET graduates are prepared to become competent law enforcement officers who will help to ensure that the public in general will remain as safe as possible."

McWilliams earned his Associate's degree in Criminal Justice at Mayland Community College prior to entering the military.

"This degree assisted me greatly throughout my career," said McWilliams. "It was instrumental in acquiring promotions while in the service, and has certainly helped with employment opportunities."

McWilliams says that many law enforcement agencies offer higher salary brackets depending on educational levels, but says the greatest advantages to obtaining any degree are the overall levels of general life knowledge and self-accomplishment that are gained.

Law enforcement is a very honorable profession, says McWilliams. When a person takes the appropriate steps to become a proficient law enforcement officer, they will experience a sense of accomplishment that few other careers can offer.

In addition to his Associate's degree from Mayland, McWilliams holds a Bachelor of Science from Gardner-Webb University, and is currently working on his Master's degree through East Carolina University. He also attended law enforcement training at the Charlotte Police Academy.

McWilliams resides in Avery County with his wife and children.