Brienz Edwards is the Training Program Manager for the Austin Police Department Training Academy. She advances evidence-based training design, instructor development, and organizational learning within law enforcement.

In her previous role, Edwards served as the Field Training and Community Connect Program Supervisor, where she led a comprehensive overhaul of the department’s field training program, boosting Field Training Officer participation by 96% and implementing structured feedback systems for probationary officers. Her work bridges academy instruction with field application through curriculum innovation, evaluation, and continuous improvement.

Additionally, Edwards has applied her expertise to the Austin Police Jiu-Jitsu program, contributing a comprehensive training approach that combines technical skill development with human-centered policing strategies. Her creative integration of performance-based training, resilience-building, and community engagement ensures officers are not only tactically prepared, but also equipped to cultivate meaningful, trust-based relationships with the communities they serve.

Currently, Edwards is pursuing dual master’s degrees in Criminal Justice and Interdisciplinary Studies at Texas State University, focusing on training development, community trust, and organizational effectiveness. She holds a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Development, and an Associate degree in Peace and Conflict Studies.

Her honors include the Merrick Merit Fellowship, the Texas State Graduate Merit Fellowship, the Jane Cappe Research Enhancement Award, and the Outstanding Graduate Student Award. She has been inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. In 2024, she was selected as a Fellow in the International Association of Chiefs of Police Community Trust Initiative, recognizing her contributions to strengthening police-community relationships through innovative training and program development.