The Artesia Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) has promoted a local resident.

On Sept. 20, 2002 Joseph "Woody" Wright assumed his new position as the office director of the Artesia FLETC.

Wright filled the position after former office director Ray Havens accepted a promotion as the assistant director of field training offices, which includes the Artesia campus, a campus in Cheltenham, Md. and the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA).

Wright was born in Roswell and raised in Truth of Consequences. He graduated in 1972 and always knew what he wanted to do with his life, which is work in law enforcement.

After graduation, Wright immediately became a certified officer. He then spent five years in the U.S. Air Force working to further his career in law enforcement.

After working as the Deputy Sheriff in Sierra County from 1981 to 1984, he came to the Artesia Police Department. In July of 1989, he accepted a job at the FLETC and remained.

He said that his new position is to take the FLETC in the direction drafted by Connie Patrick and Ray Havens.

"I’m looking forward to the challenge. It is important for me to see the FLETC succeed," Wright said.

Wright would like to see the FLETC grow in Artesia. He believes that this would be an advantage for everyone in the community.

He said, "The FLETC promotes choices to Artesians." He explained that one of the benefits is that the FLETC gives adolescents an alternative to working in the oil field.

Wright explained that the campus needs contractual staff, such as cafeteria workers and maintenance crews. This comes from local residents, which means jobs for Artesians.

In addition, the FLETC hires role players from the community. Wright commented, "It provides basic training so that the officers get first hand experience."

He said that the FLETC uses a wide variety of people. Some of the roles have physical requirements and each person is individually fitted for a role. However, a role player must be at least 18 years old.

In addition, students and instructors at the campus spend money at local businesses and stores. All of this helps the economy grow.

Also, Wright said that the FLETC, "gives an avenue other than being a cop." The FLETC hires local law enforcement personnel to help in training.

Some of the advantages at the FLETC include a competitive salary, excellent benefits and working a Monday through Friday job. This allows time for family, which is important to Wright.

Married for 20 years, Wright has three daughters. Two have already graduated from Artesia High School. Also, he is a grandparent twice and awaiting a new arrival in November.