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FBI hosts federal teen academy
FOX 13's Lloyd Sowers talked with high schoolers who were chosen to learn how to be an FBI agent during a summer camp.
TAMPA, Fla. - More than 100 Tampa Bay area high school students are spending two days with federal agents at the FBI Field Office in Tampa.
Big picture view:
Agents instructed them in everything from forensics to sharpening skills on a laser gun range. They also got to climb inside the FBI's Bearcat armored vehicle, which is used by the bureau's SWAT team.
They also saw the U.S. Secret Service follow-up vehicle, an armored Suburban with jump seats and gun mounts. It's the kind of vehicle that follows in a motorcade directly behind the president's car.
Local perspective:
Many FBI field offices across the country hold a teen academy, but Tampa is one of the few where agents from other federal agencies like the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Secret Service are involved.
What's next:
The Federal Teen Academy fills fast every year. If you're interested in next summer, check www.fbi.gov during the next school year, and sign up early.
Students are selected on criteria that include good grades and good character.
The Source: FOX 13's Lloyd Sowers interviewed teens and instructors at the Federal Teen Academy in Tampa. Video resources and information from www.fbi.gov were also used in preparing this report.