Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Ryan Shields was promoted to lieutenant in the department’s North Tryon Division in August – the same day he also was promoted to lieutenant colonel for the National Guard. We caught up with him to find out what it was like to receive both promotions on the same day, how his leadership roles complement each other, and why he thinks CMPD is the right place for anyone with military experience considering a career in law enforcement.
What was it like to receive your promotions with CMPD and in the National Guard on the same day?
It was a deeply meaningful experience. Achieving these significant milestones in front of my family made the moment especially rewarding. It was a proud culmination of the dedication and hard work I have invested in both careers.
When did you join CMPD and the National Guard? What motivated you to serve in both?
I joined the National Guard in June 2006 and became a member of CMPD in January 2009.
My journey began with an active-duty scholarship when I started college. Since the age of 13, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement. However, I was mindful that active-duty military service would extend my timeline by four years. To balance both aspirations, I chose to join the National Guard in Indiana while attending college and simultaneously pursuing my dream of becoming a police officer. Upon discovering that I could serve in both roles for up to 30 years, I committed fully to excelling in both careers.
What experience from the National Guard has helped you as a CMPD officer and leader?
As a commissioned officer in the National Guard, leadership is something we study and practice continuously. Before stepping into a formal leadership role within CMPD, I had already spent more than 10 years developing my leadership skills.
This experience prepared me to be a well-rounded leader, balancing humility, kindness and compassion while effectively accomplishing the missions of both organizations. The Army instills core values like leadership, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. These principles have become my guiding foundation and moral compass in everything I do.
How has your experience at CMPD influenced your mindset in the National Guard?
As I’ve gained more experience at CMPD, I’ve become better at managing stressful situations, and I have developed greater personal resilience in handling personnel challenges.
My interpersonal skills have significantly improved, which has positively impacted the relationships I build within the National Guard. For instance, I had the privilege of serving as the officer in charge for all of Western North Carolina during the Hurricane Helene relief efforts. In that role, my enhanced interpersonal abilities allowed me to establish strong partnerships with organizations such as FEMA, active-duty units, county and city officials, and neighboring National Guard units.
What personal values do both roles share?
Both roles are guided by the same core values: honor, integrity, respect and selfless service. My passion lies in serving my community and doing everything I can to improve the quality of life for our citizens. At the heart of both roles is the opportunity to be a compassionate and caring person, which is something I truly value.
How has CMPD supported you while serving in the National Guard?
CMPD has been incredibly supportive throughout my journey. Active military personnel within CMPD are granted 80 hours of military leave, giving us the necessary time off without having to use our personal earned leave. The department has always shown a positive attitude toward our military commitments. Additionally, CMPD offers flexible scheduling, further demonstrating the agency’s strong support for its military service members.
What advice do you have for someone in the military who’s considering joining law enforcement?
If you’re in the National Guard or another branch of the military and considering a career in law enforcement – especially with CMPD – I’d say go for it.
The skills, discipline and commitment you’ve developed in the military translate incredibly well to policing. CMPD is very supportive of military members, offering benefits like military leave and flexible scheduling to help balance both roles. Embrace the opportunity to continue serving your community in a new way, and know that your military experience will be valued and respected here. Stay dedicated, be open to learning and lean on the support system around you. You’ll find a strong community ready to back you up.
What do you think makes CMPD a strong option for those with military experience?
CMPD recognizes and values the unique skills and dedication that veterans bring. CMPD fosters a culture of respect, teamwork and service values that aligns closely with military life. For veterans looking to continue serving their community with purpose and integrity, CMPD provides a welcoming and supportive environment to do just that.
What’s the “why” that drives you every day, in both CMPD and the National Guard?
My family is my driving force every day. I often ask myself, “How would I want my family to be treated by police officers or leaders within an organization?” This perspective motivates me to work hard – not only to fulfill my commitment to the community, but also to provide for and protect my loved ones. I genuinely care about the people within our organization and strive to lead with that same level of respect and dedication.
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