Sergeant Ryan Buhrig of the Surrey Police Service exemplifies innovation, leadership, and dedication in modern law enforcement. Beginning his career with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and later serving with the Port Moody Police Department, Sgt. Buhrig earned multiple commendations for his work in impaired driving enforcement and criminal investigations. Now a key figure in the Professional Skills Section at Surrey Police Service, he has revolutionized training delivery through the implementation of a cutting-edge learning management system and an automated training management platform. These initiatives have streamlined operations and enhanced transparency, earning him a Chief Constable Commendation and national recognition. 

Sgt. Buhrig also played a pivotal role in the transition of the local policing responsibility from RCMP to SPS, serving as treasurer and spokesperson for the Surrey Police Union. He helped negotiate the agency’s first collective agreement, introducing progressive policies such as paid maternity and paternity leave and wellness programs. His academic achievements include a master’s degree in criminology, a Governor General’s Gold Medal, and ongoing PhD research at Simon Fraser University. He has published peer-reviewed articles and presented at international criminology conferences, focusing on police culture, mental health, and training. 

As a sessional instructor at the University of Fraser Valley, he mentors future criminal justice professionals, emphasizing trauma-informed and de-escalation practices. Sgt. Buhrig’s contributions to policing, both in practice and policy, position him as a transformative leader in Canadian law enforcement. 

“I’m driven by curiosity and a desire to improve policing through innovation, research, and compassion.”