There’s a first time for everything. No one knows that better than Wake Tech alum Pat Bazemore, whose career has been one “first” after another. Bazemore, a Retired Cary Police Chief, got her first crime-fighting job 20+ years ago, after graduating from Wake Tech with an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. The Cary Police Department hired her as a patrol officer, and she loved it!

Bazemore worked hard and began to rise in the department’s ranks – becoming the first female sergeant, first female lieutenant, first female captain, first female major, the first deputy chief, and the first woman Police Chief in the town’s history. As she rose within the department, she added educational credentials as well, earning her Bachelor’s Degree from Campbell University and her MBA from Pfeiffer University.

“It was the pinnacle of my career,” Bazemore says, “knowing that I had the support of the town staff, the department, and the community.” While Bazemore’s hard work and achievements are impressive, she credits Wake Tech with giving her a solid start and a strong foundation upon which to grow. “Without having gone through the Criminal Justice program at Wake Tech, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”