GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — Seth Dvorak of Scottsbluff began training this week at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy, continuing a career of public service after a four-year stint with the United States Marine Corps.

Dvorak, a 2018 graduate of Banner County High School, is one of 12 recruits in Camp 73, which officially started training in Grand Island as the Nebraska State Patrol’s newest class of recruits.

“Today is a great day for Nebraska, as these recruits have committed themselves to a career of serving the people and visitors of our great state,” said Col. Bryan Waugh, superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “They’ve already demonstrated they have the character necessary to serve with integrity.”

The Camp 73 recruits come from communities across Nebraska and several other states. Along with Dvorak, the class includes recruits from Gretna, Lincoln, St. Paul, Benkelman and Battle Creek, as well as Florida, Colorado, Illinois and California.

Recruits will undergo hundreds of hours of classroom instruction and scenario-based training over the next six months. The training is designed to prepare them for law enforcement duties statewide, including traffic enforcement, criminal investigations and emergency response.

“These recruits are embarking on a rigorous training course that will ensure they are prepared to provide the highest quality service to Nebraskans,” said Capt. Andy Ecklund, director of training for the Nebraska State Patrol.

Camp 73 is scheduled to graduate June 18, 2026. Those who successfully complete the academy will earn the title of Nebraska State Trooper.