Sergeant Ryan Buhrig wins the 2025 F. Darren Smith Award of Excellence

The Canadian Police Knowledge Network (CPKN) recently awarded Ryan Buhrig, Sergeant, Surrey Police Service (SPS), with the 2025 F. Darren Smith Award of Excellence.

The award was presented during CPKN’s annual Stanhope Conference on October 9, 2025, to a crowd of almost 100 delegates from 48 services across Canada.

The award is named in recognition of F. Darren Smith, who dedicated 33 years to the Toronto Police Service and played a significant role in advancing police training models through technology at the Toronto Police College. His contributions influenced training initiatives nationwide.

Established in 2012, this award honours his legacy and acknowledges individuals within the Canadian police community who exhibit exceptional leadership, commitment, and vision in promoting technology-enhanced learning.

“Sergeant Buhrig is recognized as a leader within his police service and across the Network as a whole,” said Sonia Poulin, President, CPKN. “He has made great contributions to SPS and regularly shares his expertise with police services across the country, representing our Network's values.”

A police officer since 2015, Buhrig has been with SPS since 2021. Throughout his tenure in the SPS Training Unit, his vision and leadership have driven transformational advancements in technology-enhanced learning within the police service.

He played a pivotal role in the development and deployment of a custom learning management system (LMS) that specifically addresses the distinct requirements of SPS. The LMS is modern, scalable, and responsive, effectively supporting training for all personnel.

Buhrig’s innovative approach introduced automation to replace manual procedures, implemented real-time dashboards, and enhanced the user experience. These improvements have streamlined administrative processes and resulted in measurable gains in training outcomes for SPS.

Furthermore, his dedication extends beyond his own organization. Buhrig actively collaborates with police services across Canada, sharing insights and best practices to support the advancement of training systems and promote collective professional growth.

By offering guidance and sharing lessons learned, he has demonstrated the positive potential of digital tools to reshape training delivery and management.

“Ryan has advanced technology-enhanced learning in a practical, sustainable, and widely influential way,” stated Kelly Wong, Inspector, SPS, in her nomination letter. “The broader impact of his work has created ripple effects across the country. By showing what is possible, and by helping others get there faster, Ryan is leaving a legacy that goes beyond one agency.”