VALERIE VIGIL SCHNETZLER
San Diego
Summary
Accomplished K9 Trainer and Military Police Staff Sergeant with over a decade of experience in military working dog operations and handler development. Expertise in obedience, detection fundamentals, and safety protocols enhances operational readiness. Seeking a K9 Trainer position in military, law enforcement, or civilian pet-dog training environments, with a commitment to delivering exceptional training and support.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Various Assignments | Non-Commissioned Officer to SNCO
United States Marine Corps
04.2025 - Current
- Led and supervised Marines in law enforcement, security, and training environments.
- Conducted instruction and mentorship emphasizing discipline, accountability, and performance under stress.
- Coordinated security operations with personnel and working dogs.
- Developed strong foundations in operational planning, instruction, and corrective training methodologies.
- Executed military police operations to ensure safety and security on base.
- Coordinated logistics for training exercises and operational deployments.
- Monitored equipment maintenance and ensured operational readiness.
Staff Sergeant (E-6) | Assistant Operations Chief
United States Marine Corps
San Diego
04.2022 - Current
- Supported Military Working Dog (MWD) training operations, contributing 500 hours of K9-related training support to enhance operational readiness.
- Coordinated schedules, training logistics, and personnel accountability for law enforcement and K9 sections, ensuring seamless training execution.
- Assisted K9 handlers and trainers during obedience, detection, and operational training evolutions.
- Ensured training safety, proper equipment usage, and adherence to operational standards.
- Oversaw kennel-adjacent operations and ensured compliance with animal welfare and safety protocols.
- Served as a subject-matter resource for junior Marines on discipline, consistency, and canine-handler fundamentals.
- Maintained accurate records and reports on training and personnel readiness, facilitating informed decision-making for operational tasking.
- Provost Marshal’s Office (PMO)
Education
Military Working Dog Trainers Course
Lackland AFB San Antoinio TX 03-2021
Military Working Dog School Basic
Lackland AFB San Antonio TX03-2019
Military Police School Basic
Fort Leonard Wood, MO10-2018
Marine Corps Recruit Training
Paris Island Sc05-2017
Skills
- K9 training
- MWD training support
- Patrol & Detection Fundamentals
- Handler Coaching & Evaluation
- Training documentation
- Safety management
- Kennel Operations & Animal Welfare
- Law enforcement coordination
- Team leadership
- High-stress operations
- Client communication
- Behavioral conditioning
Certification
- Military Police (5811) MOS
- K9 Training Support Experience (MWD)
- Security Augment Force (SAF) Training & Supervision
- Leadership Courses (NCO/SNCO-level)
- Use-of-Force & Safety Training
- (Additional civilian dog-training certifications can be added here as obtained)
Availability
Open to military, law enforcement, private K9 training programs, or civilian pet-dog training facilities.
Transferable Skills For Pet Dog Training
- Strong understanding of behavior shaping through repetition, consistency, and reward systems.
- Ability to coach handlers/owners with patience and clarity.
- Experience working with dogs in distracting, high-pressure environments.
- Emphasis on safety, trust-building, and ethical training practices.
Leadership And Management Experience
- Supervised and mentored 8+ Marines with varying administrative, medical, and legal considerations.
- Planned and executed training events requiring coordination across multiple sections.
- Known for calm leadership style, clear communication, and consistency—key traits in canine training.
Timeline
Various Assignments | Non-Commissioned Officer to SNCO
United States Marine Corps
04.2025 - Current
Staff Sergeant (E-6) | Assistant Operations Chief
United States Marine Corps
04.2022 - Current
Military Working Dog Trainers Course
Military Working Dog School Basic
Military Police School Basic
Marine Corps Recruit Training