Chlebos is currently employed as an auditor/ investigator with the vehicle logistics group at Daimler Chrysler's corporate headquarters in Michigan. In the position, he assesses the work standards and ethics of contracted service providers by investigating reports of vehicle theft, fraud, and conflict of interest. Chlebos also owns a consultant firm, where he conducts legal research, acts as a liaison to the criminal justice system, and conducts security surveys and audits.

Because of his involvement in legal investigations, Chlebos decided that a master's degree in criminal justice was his best path to advance his career. Selecting an institution was relatively easy for him as he had heard that UWP's online criminal justice program was "top-notch" and he was already familiar with the school.

Chlebos reports that being a student in UWP's online criminal justice program has already been valuable to him professionally. He has discovered that it is not only the knowledge he's gained from the distance learning program that is useful, but also the network of contacts and friends that he has made through his classes.

"In my position, the more contacts and resources that are available, the easier my job is," said Chlebos.

The professionalism of UWP's online faculty has been an important aspect of Chlebos' online experience. He believes that the background and expertise of his instructors allow them to not only teach the topic, but to also understand what a street cop endures and what is required to be successful within the criminal justice community. He appreciates the ease with which he can contact his professors and his advisor, Dr. Cheryl Fuller.

"The reality is I am not their only student, but you would not know that when talking with them," said Chelbos of UWP's faculty.

As a member of the virtual Student Advisory Board, Chlebos represents the criminal justice program and the student base as a whole. He firmly believes that the Board is not a figurehead organization, there simply to appease the students and their representatives.

"Our input, I have found, has caused change in the Blackboard system's functionality and in [the procedures for] professor and course evaluations. Much thought, time, and effort goes into the monthly meetings. They are conducted on a professional level and provide significant inroads for improvement. It is exciting to be a part of change and know that one's opinion is weighed equally among others," said Chelbos.

UWP's distance learning programs have grown significantly over the past few years and Chlebos foresees hurdles ahead, including reduced federal and state funding, but he believes that the university's agenda is clear and decisive. He is excited to see the programs expand despite the roadblocks.

Chlebos is often approached by colleagues considering distance education. His response to them is "Let me simply say: Do it NOW! I joined a police department when I was 21. Because I was quite successful in moving up the ranks and enhancing my knowledge base through workshops, a formal education was not part of my agenda. Time changes one's perception however," said Chlebos. "I'm 53 and quite secure in my professional position. Do I really need to advance my education at this point in my career? I suppose I could get away with remaining status quo. But when the opportunity to receive a promotion, augment my status in the professional community, or posture myself in the event of unemployment comes, I want to be prepared. To do that, I must place myself above my competition--my fellow workers."

"I would also add, if you are a current student or potential student and want to posture yourself for success, consider UWP. It is like one-stop shopping. You can get it all at Platteville. All you have to do is ask!"