Ashton Wieringa of Oak Harbor was one of 27 cadets who graduated Monday from the Skagit Valley College Parks Law Enforcement Academy.

The academy curriculum includes 720 hours of classroom and field training, including law enforcement tactics and legal information for visitor protection. Natural, cultural and historic resources protection methods also are an emphasis.

Wieringa started work as a park aide for Washington State Parks at Lake Sammamish, Bride Trails and now Fort Casey. He wants to continue with a career in the park service.

This year’s graduates have accepted positions to protect some of America’s most treasured parks and lands including Yellowstone, Yosemite, Shenandoah, Glacier and Mount Rainier.