Mr. Trent M. Pettis joined the staff of the Department of Veterans Affairs law Enforcement Training Center (LETC) in October of 2004. Mr. Pettis began his career with the VA as a patrol officer and firearms instructor for the Black Hills Health Care System, Ft. Meade SD, in May 2003.

From 1986-1995, Mr. Pettis served on active duty in the US Navy, assigned to various positions on the West coast and throughout the Western Pacific. During his active-duty tours, Mr. Pettis served on several ships deployed to the Persian Gulf Region in support of military operations.

After leaving military service in 1995, Mr. Pettis joined the Rapid City Police Department in Rapid City, South Dakota, and served until assuming Federal service status in September 2002. Mr. Pettis has held positions as a Patrol Officer, Community Police Officer, DARE Instructor, Domestic Violence Officer, Gang Task Force Member, Outlaw Biker Task Force Agent, and Reserve Training Officer.

Within VA, Mr. Pettis has spearheaded and developed two national Police Training Programs related to both Veterans Justice and Outside Law Enforcement/First Responder Training. These programs have collectively trained over 11,000 officers on VA resources and diversion to care.
Mr. Pettis was promoted to his current position in July of 2022. He previously held the positions of Division Chief in both the Academic and Special Services Divisions. His primary responsibilities at the LETC include the oversight of the operational divisions, to include, Academics, Technical, and Advanced Divisions.