ATF NCETR advanced explosives disposal techniques program earns national accreditation

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has received initial accreditation from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Accreditation Board for its Advanced Explosives Disposal Techniques program, recognizing the program's commitment to excellence in federal law enforcement training.

"This accreditation reflects the outstanding work of our instructors, staff, and subject matter experts who are committed to providing the highest level of explosives training in the nation," said NCETR Special Agent in Charge Brice McCracken. "Every day, ATF personnel train law enforcement and public safety professionals to respond to some of the most dangerous situations they may encounter. Receiving FLETA accreditation validates the quality, professionalism, and rigor of that training and demonstrates our commitment to continuously improving the programs we deliver."

Instructed at ATF's National Center for Explosives Training and Research on Redstone Arsenal, the AEDT program provides comprehensive training on safe and effective explosives disposal practices.

AEDT is a program that was born out of necessity. Data shows that bomb technicians in the United States were more likely to be killed or injured while conducting an explosives disposal operation than any other mission, including attempting to render safe an improvised explosive device. Several bomb squad accident investigations conducted by ATF revealed that additional training was the single most effective way to reduce the number of these accidents.

The advanced skills and techniques taught at AEDT have been recognized by the National Bomb Squad Commanders Advisory Board and is mandated as "critical skills training" for all Public Safety Bomb Technicians in the United States.

Through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on training, students develop the specialized skills necessary to safely identify, assess, and dispose of explosive materials in real-world environments.

The eight-day program includes 65 hours of instruction and serves as a cornerstone of ATF's efforts to support bomb technicians and explosives experts responsible for protecting communities from explosive threats.

The FLETA accreditation process includes an independent review of training programs to ensure compliance with rigorous standards governing administration, instructor development, curriculum design, and training delivery. Accreditation signifies that a program meets nationally recognized benchmarks for excellence in federal law enforcement training.

NCETR serves as ATF's premier training and research facility for explosives and arson investigations, providing specialized instruction to federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, military, and international law enforcement partners.

The accreditation of the AEDT program further reinforces ATF's commitment to preparing public safety professionals with the knowledge, skills, and capabilities needed to address evolving explosives threats and safeguard communities across the United States.

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ATF protects American communities from violent crime driven by the illegal use of firearms, explosives, and acts of arson. Through crime gun intelligence, forensic analysis, and relentless investigation, we identify and arrest violent offenders and gang members, dismantle trafficking networks, and sever the supply chains arming cartels, prohibited persons, and terrorist organizations. We defend the rights of law-abiding citizens by safeguarding lawful commerce and upholding the Constitution of the United States. Learn more about what ATF is doing to reduce violent crime in your community by following us on X @ATFHQ, Instagram @ATFHQ, LinkedIn @ATF, and Facebook @HQATF, or on the web at www.atf.gov .