By Shannon Lukens. Courtesy photo.
Colorado Northwestern Community College has announced they have received new reality-based training mats to be used by the Park Ranger Law Enforcement Academy on the campus in Rangely. It’s a 17-week academy and the mats will be used with scenario-based training sessions. They were installed by Canyonlands Construction.
Press Release from Colorado Northwestern Community College; Aug. 27, 2025
For Release Immediate Release; 8/27/2025
Colorado Northwestern Community College (CNCC) Park Ranger Law Enforcement Academy Enhances Training
(Rangely, CO) — CNCC’s Park Ranger Law Enforcement Academy continues to modernize and enhance its training with the addition of reality-based training mats. The mats arrived this week. Ian Kottenstette of Canyonlands Construction expertly installed the mats allowing the students to train safely. Special thanks to Canyonlands Construction for installing new matts and the renovation!
“The newly renovated matt room is outstanding and brings our program’s facilities up to the professional level of training being accomplished daily at the Park Ranger Law Enforcement Academy” – Chuck Huyck, PRLEA Director
The 17-week academy, which prepares recruits for law enforcement roles in national parks, will incorporate the mats into scenario-based training sessions. This enhancement is part of CNCC’s ongoing efforts to modernize its curriculum and provide a safe, effective learning environment for students.
The adoption of Zebra mats by Colorado Northwestern Community College reflects a commitment to modernizing training and ensuring the highest professional standards in defensive tactics and use-of-force instruction. By providing a safe and effective training environment, this academy aims to better prepare recruits and park rangers for real-world scenarios while minimizing the risk of injuries during training.
This current Park Ranger Law Enforcement Academy class is scheduled to graduate in December.
Written By – C.J. Ross
About CNCC: Colorado Northwestern Community College enhances people’s lives by providing an accessible, affordable, quality education. It is the college of choice for students seeking a unique education grounded in the Colorado experience.