Why Do Probation Departments Still Have Retention and Hiring Issues

SESSION INFO

Monday, March 2, 2026
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Session Type: Workshop

This presentation will identify the growing staff crisis for probation departments. The challenges of hiring and retention relating to turnover will also be uncovered. An analysis of recent historical trends relating to generation Z workers will prove the workforce is reducing itself.

SESSION PRESENTERS

Paul Chavez, PhD
Deputy Probation Officer II/Training Manager, Los Angeles County Probation


In a career spanning many years, Paul C., an accomplished instructional professional, has held positions of increasing scope and responsibility. Paul currently serves as a Deputy Probation Officer/Training Manager for the Los Angeles County Probation Department. Here, he oversees large-scale training programs that has exceeded organizational expectations. Also, Paul has taught/still works with prestigious schools like Westcliff University, California Miramar University, and the Los Angeles Unified School District. Currently, besides his public service, Dr. Chavez is associate faculty with Woodbury University consulting for the public safety and the College of Liberal Arts programs, along with National University as a faculty member for the College of Law and Public Service. Paul obtained a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration and a M.Phil., from Walden University, a Master of Public Administration from American Public University, and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management from California State University, Dominguez Hills. He is POST certified in Use of Force, Principled Policing and is a level III POST certified instructor.


Javier Hoil
Supervising Detention Services Officer, Los Angeles County Probation


In a career spanning many years, Javier Hoil., an accomplished instructional professional, has held positions of increasing scope and responsibility. Javier currently serves as a Supervising Detention Services Officer for the Los Angeles County Probation Department. Also, as a training manager he facilitates a multitude of large-scale training programs that exceeded organizational expectations. Besides his public service, Mr. Hoil is active with other outside activities overseeing youth development in sports as a track and field coach. Currently, Javier facilitates peace officers in de-escalation and use of force policies and is an advocate for officer wellness. Javier obtained his B.S in Sociology from Cal Polytechnical University in Pomona. He is POST (Peace Officers Standards Training) in Use of Force, LEVEL I Academy Instructor Certified Course training and development.