This one-day presentation is designed for newer commanders, team leaders, and those with limited SWAT experience. It aims to provide insights into managing and leading specialty teams in your organization. A wide array of topics will be discussed, including team typing, critical skills list development, eight critical steps of incident management, safety priorities, risk mitigation for specialty teams, understanding the elements of hostage and non-hostage incidents, response to suicidal subjects, and relevant case law.

Mark Pergola began his career in law enforcement in 1990 and has been employed with the Seminole County (FL) Sheriff's Office since 1996. As a captain, he serves as the agency's High-Risk Incident Commander and oversees the Special Operations Division, Aviation Section, Emergency Management Section, and Specialty Response Teams. Pergola has served as a commander in Criminal Investigations, Honor Guard, Specialized Services, SWAT Technical Support, and as the Watch Commander. As a supervisor, he served in Auto Theft, Financial Crimes, patrol, and as a canine handler. Mark is also an active participant in the State of Florida Region 5 Emergency Management Team. In 2007, he began a pilot program of SWAT Technicians to support SWAT operations. This group of SWAT operators eventually evolved into a four-person team trained in the technical aspects of SWAT. Pergola is the Technology Section Chair for the NTOA. He routinely instructs classes nationally in Unified Command, Emergency Management, and Technology in Tactical Operations. Mark has had several periodicals published in national law enforcement publications. He is also a veteran of the US Navy and served during Operation Noble Eagle.