By Jennifer Gomori, POJ Editor

Wayne County Regional Police Training Academy (WCRPTA) graduate Brandon Brushaber completed two college degrees before realizing he was in the wrong career field. His stellar performance in the police academy proves he made the right decision to change course.

The 24-year-old was honored with the $500 Richard R. Weiler Scholarship Award during the academy graduation Nov. 8, 2024. He was among three non-sponsored cadets in a graduating class of 58. 

“It means a lot because I put myself through this, so I used my own money during the academy,” Brushaber said. “I didn’t have any income so (the Weiler Award) is really beneficial. I really appreciate it.” 

Photos courtesy of WCRPTA WCRPTA graduate Brandon Brushaber (right) is presented the Weiler Scholarship Award by Plymouth Police Chief Al Cox at graduation Nov. 8, 2024.

The Richard R. Weiler Scholarship Award, sponsored by the POLC, is awarded twice yearly at the discretion of the college police academy to graduates who have not been sponsored by any police agency. Qualifying cadets must pass the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) certification test and meet MCOLES employment standards to become certified Michigan Law Enforcement Officers.

“He did very well in academics and was outstanding in all the primary skills (shooting, defensive tactics, driving, and physical training),” said WCRPTA Director Erik Tilli.

“Physical fitness has always been extremely important to me. I grew up being involved in sports, lifting weights, being active,” said Brushaber, who had practice shooting at gun ranges and outdoors with his dad and brother.

Brushaber graduated with a 3.8 GPA from the academy. He earned an associate degree in Liberal Arts from Schoolcraft College, and a bachelor’s in Business Administration from Wayne State University.

“It just so happened my boss had the same degree I was going for. That’s when I realized I don’t think I can do this for 30 years,” he said. “I knew right away that I didn’t want to sit at a desk my entire career.”

His best friend, Brenden Honeycutt, shared his plans to attend WCRPTA in July 2024 and what he knew about becoming a police officer. Being able to move around on the job while protecting the public appealed to Brushaber. 

"From a young age (Honeycutt) wanted to go into law enforcement. Over some time, it kind of just got in my mind … and I thought I would give it a try and have been doing it ever since,” he said. “I really enjoyed (the academy). The material they cover is phenomenal and they go above and beyond to help us out even more. The friends I made in there I think I’ll be friends with them forever.”

The two graduated together and were immediately hired. Brushaber began working as a Livonia Police Officer Nov. 11 and Honeycutt was hired as a Trenton Police Officer.