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Troy Van Dyke is a former All-Conference Offensive Lineman, Security Guard at Flagler College, Father, and Fiancé who is about to become a Prison Guard at Putnam Correctional Institution. Speaking with Troy, he revealed his family’s background that led him to this, his expectations, as well as experiences that have prepared him for what he is about to face. He also gave a little taste of what

Q: So Troy where are you from and what professions did your parents have growing up?

A: I was born and grew up in Old Bridge, New Jersey. I moved to St. Augustine when I was 11, then left for college and came back after that. My biological dad is an electrician, my mother is a paralegal, and my step-father is the director of security here at Flagler College. Before that he was a Federal Law Enforcement Agent.

Q: Which do you consider your home and what was it like adjusting to life here?

A: I had moved a couple of times in my life so it wasn’t anything new, different state different people big whoop, all the same stuff. Home will always be New Jersey because that’s where I was born and raised, but I have been here long enough to consider St. Augustine a second home.

Q: So growing up did you play any sports, since New Jersey is known for being a hotspot for good prospects of all sports and did you know any famous athletes growing up?

A: I played four years of Varsity Football in high school. After that I went to a [Junior College] Jersey Coast Academy. There I was two-time all conference and captain as an offensive lineman. Then after two years I transferred to William Patterson University, and played two years there and was all conference once my senior year. As far as famous players I know, I played high school ball with a kid, Willie Harvey Jr., He’s a pro now. I also knew Minkah Fitzpatrick growing up. I also held snaps for a kicker in high school Cairo Santos. Currently I play in a Public Safety League. Which is competitive and you have to be active Corrections, EMS, Fire, or Law Enforcement. We travel all over the country and play other teams that are the same. Football also allowed me to get my Associates in Criminal Justice.

Q: So on the seventh you will be working at a prison. Where is it, and is it what type of security is it?

A: Putnam Correctional Institution. It is a Medium security level, meaning these people will hopefully be released back into general population one day if everything goes according to plan.

Q: So how did you get into Law Enforcement, security, and corrections. Who motivated you to do so. Who or what was your biggest inspiration to do so?

A: A lot of my family are Law Enforcement. I have an uncle who was a state trooper in New Jersey. I have three uncles that are FBI. My step-father was a Federal Law Enforcement Agent and is works here, so that’s how I got to Flagler. So it’s kind of a family heirloom. Something that I wanted to follow in the footsteps. My step-father was the one I talked to the most and leaned on the most throughout this.

Q: Have you talked to any current or former prison guards and asked them what’s it’s like, and how it is? If so have they given you any advice?

A: Yes I have talked to several people who currently or have worked at a prison in the past. Most if not all have encouraged me to do it. My goal is obviously to get on the road and patrol, but everyone i’ve talked to, wether they be corrections or law enforcement say that the experience that comes with working in the jail is next to none and it’ll make you a better patrol officer one day.

Q: Could you see yourself staying if you enjoy it? Are there any opportunities for advancement? Could you possibly transition to Sheriff?

A: If I like it enough i’ll probably stay. Advancement is way faster in the prison then on the road. It’s definitely possible to transition to Sheriff, but that’s just not something i’m interested in, I don’t want political power.

Q: What does your family think about this? Are they worried or concerned?

A: They have all been very encouraging. I think that there is always a sense of worry when someone goes into this field, but they all have been encouraging. They are all excited for me to start.

Q: What has impacted you career so far? This job, Police Academies, past schooling? Could you see yourself Going back to school?

A: Working here at Flagler has been a great stepping stone. It has given me the opportunity to learn things that parallel Law Enforcement and hone some skills that I learned through the two Academies I went through. The Academies were the best worst time i’ve ever had. I met some of my best friends through there. School taught me a lot and I am currently enrolled in a online school, Vincennes University in Homeland Secruity out of Indiana.

Q: Have you been on ride alongs or tours of facilities? What in your personal life has readied you for this?

A: I’ve done both, countless ride alongs and tours. I’ve seen some pretty rough and gruesome stuff. Too gruesome to get into detail, but it’s rough in it’s own special way. One of the main recent things that has pushed me recently is I have four adopted siblings that have gone through absolute hell with their biological family. If I could stop that from any other kid, i’ll be happy, that would make my career worth it.

Q: Ending on somewhat happier note, have you ever been pepper sprayed or tased? If so which hurts more? Also have you ever committed any criminal activity?

A: I have had both done to me, and I would rather be tased ten times before being pepper sprayed again. Being sprayed is like a three hour effect. I have had speeding tickets but that’s it and no I will not say how fast. However, I will I got caught in a Mazda 3 Hatchback, but not yet with my Camaro which is surprising.

At the time of this interview it was Troy’s last day at Flagler and has yet to start his new career. Troy seems more than ready to step into his future career and we all wish him nothing but good fortunes.