FBI San Diego Hosts 2025 Teen Academy

Inspiring the Leaders of Tomorrow

 

The FBI San Diego Field Office proudly welcomed 60 outstanding high school students from across our region for the 2025 Teen Academy. Selected from a competitive pool of 90 applicants, these future changemakers spent the day immersed in hands-on learning and leadership development alongside FBI agents, analysts, and professional staff.

This annual event offers students a rare, behind-the-scenes look at federal law enforcement, while building critical thinking, teamwork, and civic awareness.

Participants rotated through interactive sessions focused on real-world investigative skills, including:

  • Careers in the FBI

  • Fingerprint & footprint analysis

  • Alternative light source technology

  • Polygraph demonstrations

  • Insights from Bomb Technicians and Crisis Negotiators

  • Cyber and Technology in modern investigations

A highlight of the day was the Interactive Crime Scenario, where students worked in teams to solve a simulated bank robbery—analyzing evidence, interviewing “suspects,” and presenting their case findings to their peers. The experience sharpened not only their problem-solving abilities but also their confidence and communication skills.

Students also explored the FBI’s mission areas in counterterrorism, cybercrime, public corruption, SWAT, and evidence response—gaining valuable career insight and perspective on what it truly means to serve.

The feedback said it all:

“My child came home completely inspired and couldn’t stop talking about what they learned. Thank you for this incredible opportunity!” — Parent participant

From Chief of Staff Allison Wright:

“I cannot begin to express how grateful I am for each and every one of you. I have received nothing but praise from participants, parents, and even our own staff. Your support truly made this event a success.”

Together, we are shaping the future—one student at a time.

Group of young students and adults gathered in an underground parking garage for a photo, some wearing name tags and casual clothes, with a fire extinguisher visible on the right side.
A diverse group of young people and two women are gathered in a modern office classroom, with some seated and others standing, participating in a presentation or workshop. The room features large windows, multiple monitors, and a conference table with laptops and notebooks.
A classroom with students and instructor engaging in a shooting activity with a toy gun, connected to laptops and screens, at the FBI San Diego Teen Academy Class of 2025.
Group of students and instructor in a workshop or classroom setting with tools and equipment, some people are observing and listening.
A group of people, including an FBI agent, are gathered under an overpass with a large black armored vehicle. The FBI agent is adjusting her vest, and others are standing around or entering the vehicle. The scene appears to be at a crime scene or law enforcement operation.