NACA recently completed a groundbreaking two-day pilot program in Pasadena, California, as part of Field Forward – a program by NACA. The pilot was led by Lean Six Sigma Certified Board President Spencer Conover, Executive Director Jerrica Owen (also Lean Six Sigma certified), and Mike Wheeler, who completed the full two-day field services assessment. This innovative model combined a comprehensive department assessment with an immersive process improvement workshop, and the results have us energized for what’s ahead.
What made this pilot truly progressive was the shift from traditional policy review to hands-on, officer-led problem solving. Over two days, Pasadena’s animal control officers took the lead: examining their own processes, identifying strengths and challenges, and collaborating across roles to develop real solutions.
This wasn’t top-down training. Instead, it was a space for the team to think critically, share openly, and build a roadmap forward together. From streamlining response protocols to improving internal communication, the workshop sparked meaningful conversations and collective action.
Paired with the department assessment, which included officer ride-alongs for a true on-the-ground perspective, we gained deep, real-world insight into the team’s daily challenges and opportunities. Spending two days side-by-side with officers reinforced NACA’s evolving culture: working directly with professionals in the field to create sustainable, effective change from the ground up.
The workshop itself was shaped in real time by insights gathered during the assessment. Together, we explored what’s working, what’s not, and what practical steps the team can take moving forward. The level of buy-in, the depth of discussion, and the energy in the room made one thing clear: meaningful change isn’t just possible—it’s already happening.
And this is only the beginning. We’re excited to refine this Field Forward model and expand it to more agencies and officers across the country. Stay tuned!
