GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — Two new leaders are taking over in prominent roles in the Nebraska State Patrol’s Central Nebraska operations.

The state patrol announced Thursday that Captain Andy Ecklund has been promoted to the position of NSP Director of Training in command of the NSP Training Academy, based in Grand Island. Captain Dean Riedel has been promoted to be Commander of NSP Troop C, which serves much of central Nebraska.

“These two leaders have been exceptional in their service to Nebraska for years,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Their experience has not only earned the respect of our teammates across the state, but their proven leadership will be a tremendous asset to our troopers, investigators, recruits, and professional staff.

Riedel has been with the state patrol for 23 years and most recently served as a lieutenant. He replaces Jeff Roby, who was recently promoted to be the western operations major.

“Our Troop C personnel are hard-working and provide exceptional service to a large area,” said Captain Riedel. “I started my career with NSP in the tri-cities area and have called this area home for several years. I’m honored to lead this team as we continue to serve the people of central Nebraska and work to keep people safe on the roadways and in our great communities.”

Ecklund has been with the state patrol for 16 years and served as assistant director of training for three years. He replaces Greg Miller, who transferred to Omaha.

“Training is critical to our team at the Nebraska State Patrol,” said Captain Ecklund. “From the recruits training to earn their badge to the troopers and investigators with decades of service, our Training Academy team works tirelessly to provide the best training and instruction to serve the people of Nebraska. I’m proud to be on this team and eager to continue this important work.”