Nicholas Zakula

Nicholas Zakula has a long and diverse work history. Nicholas began their career as a Security Officer at Curtis & Associates in 1991 before joining the Village of Niles, IL in 1992 as a Patrol Officer. Over the years, they steadily moved up the ranks, serving as a Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Detective Sergeant, and Watch Commander. In 2017, they became a Bureau Chief and held that role until 2021 when they were promoted to Deputy Chief of Police. Additionally, they also worked as a Range Master during their time at the Village of Niles.

Nicholas Zakula obtained their Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Eastern Illinois University, where they studied from 1988 to 1990. In addition to their degree, they have acquired various certifications throughout their career. These certifications include the Executive Management Program from Northwestern University Center for Public Safety in August 2019, the School of Police Staff & Command (SPSC) from Northwestern University Center for Public Safety in May 2014, the Illinois Concealed Carry Firearms Instructor (ILCCF) from the Illinois State Police in January 2014, and the Supervision of Police Personnel (SPP) from Northwestern University Center for Public Safety in September 2011. Nicholas also holds the Illinois Law Enforcement Officer Certification from the State of Illinois, which they obtained in June 1992. Furthermore, Nicholas Zakula has additional certifications such as the TASER Instructor certification from TASER International in 2002, the Active Threat Instructor certification from ILLINOIS TACTICAL OFFICERS ASSOCIATION, the Certified AR-15 armorer certification from Colt's Manufacturing Company LLC, the Certified Glock armorer certification from GLOCK, Inc., and the Rescue Task Force Instructor certification from ILLINOIS TACTICAL OFFICERS ASSOCIATION.