Q. How do I become a Member of APTG?
A.  APTG reviews more than just an individual’s tracking skill when considering an individual for membership.  Each application is considered on a case by case basis.  Team dynamics and cohesion are also a considering factor as are the individual’s ability to make APTG stronger.  We do not simply accept applications  for membership.
 
Q.  What is your process for membership?
A.  An individual who is interested in membership should complete an application and email it to ProfessionalTrackers@Verizon.net.  A member of the APTG Advisory Panel will then be in contact to let the person know that his/her application has been received and that it is under review.  The process generally begins when the applicant attends a training session. The individual should then endeavor to attend as much training as possible to allow APTG Advisory Panel members sufficient opportunity to make an informed decision.  (It is highly recommended that the individual follow up to ensure that their application was initially received.)

Q.  Do I have to be JHPTS certified to be a member?
A.  You do not have to be JHPTS certified to be a member of APTG.  However, you do have to achieve and maintain at least JHPTS Basic Certified to be an Operational team member.

Q.  If I am not JHPTS certified can I go on missions?
A.  Some Probationary Members are placed on the dispatch list and are allowed to accompany Basic and Apprentice certified members on missions.  These members are specifically chosen by the Advisory Panel based upon aptitude and tracking ability consistently demonstrated over a period of time. 

Q.  What if I have a criminal history?
A.  APTG works solely with law enforcement agencies supporting criminal investigations.  Due to the sensitive nature of those investigations, and the potential for testifying in court,  APTG recommends those with prior felony convictions do not submit applications for membership.  Misdemeanor convictions have to be considered on a case by case basis depending on the nature of the crime, frequency and elapsed time since the conviction.

Q.  How much are membership dues?
A.  APTG membership dues are $20.00 per year.  These are only payable once your membership has been accepted.  APTG is a 501C3 the dues may be tax deductible.  (Consult your tax professional)

Q.  How often and where are your trainings?
A.  APTG has quarterly training sessions.  The locations vary but are typically in the Northern part of the state.
 
Q.  Do I have to be a member to attend your training sessions?
A.  No.  Anyone, within reason, can attend an APTG training session.  We do reserve the right to refuse someone attendance but this would be rare and based on some extremely negative past experience with the individual or some knowledge of exorbitant circumstance.  We do assess a $20.00 administrative fee to all non-members who attend our JHPTS In-House training. 

Q.  Are all your services free to the public?
A.  The tracking services of APTG are free to the public on a volunteer basis.  However, APTG does charge for training.  Please contact us for more information.

Q.  Why does APTG charge a fee for non-members to attend training?
A.  APTG is rare in that we generally open our quarterly training sessions to persons who are not members of APTG.  However, we still have costs associated with these folks just like we do with our members.  We complete an evaluation on their performance, we ensure we have adequate staff to maintain the student/instructor ratio, we have to make copies of training material, sometimes we have to provide training supplies, etc.  These out of pocket costs were exceeding hundreds of dollars a year and were becoming cost prohibitive.  We decided it was better to assess a minimal fee than to close our training opportunities to non-members.
 
Q.  What is the structure of APTG?
A.  APTG is corporation which was incorporated in Virginia.  Randall Burleson is the President and Jessica Burleson is the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.   Randall and Jessica set up an Advisory Panel of senior members who assisted in founding APTG.  The Advisory Panel provides input and suggestions regarding decisions which impact APTG.  However, the final decision rests with the principles.  (In other words – the membership does not vote on Group decisions.) All the charter members were in agreement with this philosophy. 

Q.  How old do I have to be to attend training?
A.  You must be at least 18 years of age or be
accompanied by an adult or legal guardian.

Q. Does APTG provide training to Law Enforcement Departments or other SAR Groups?
A.  Yes, under our JHPTS affiliation we do provide training.  Please contact us to discuss this in more detail.