A staff report
First Sergeant Andrew M. Pait of the North Carolina Highway Patrol (NCHP) has served the state with honor and distinction for over two decades. First Sergeant Pait has been with the NCHP for 22 years, with a law enforcement career that spans nearly a quarter-century, beginning at just 21 years old with the Elizabethtown Police Department in 1998.
After a brief stint at the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, Andrew pursued his childhood dream of becoming a State Trooper. His journey with the NCHP started in 2001 after graduating from the 105th Highway Patrol Basic School. Initially stationed in Troop B District 5, which covers his home county of Bladen, Andrew’s exemplary service saw him climb the ranks, eventually leading him back to the same district as a First Sergeant and District Commander. As District Commander, he oversees three sergeants, 25 troopers, and one secretary.
Andrew’s motivation to join the NCHP stemmed from a deep-seated admiration for the organization’s structured, disciplined approach and the professionalism of its members. His career has been marked by numerous highlights, including his role as a Defensive Tactics Instructor, where he has been instrumental in training cadets across the state. Additionally, his involvement in community service initiatives, such as the Trooper Kevin Conner Memorial Run and annual Christmas toy drives, underscores his commitment to community engagement and support.
One of Andrew’s most memorable encounters came outside of duty hours. He met a man he had arrested for drunk driving five years prior. The man shared how that arrest caused him to turn his life around, underscoring the impact of Andrew’s work beyond routine patrols.
Apart from his duties, Andrew is deeply involved in his community and loves his family and friends. He volunteers with the young kids in the AWANA program at Dublin First Baptist Church, teaches law enforcement classes, and enjoys working on his farm and woodworking projects. His life outside the uniform is as fulfilling as his professional endeavors, reflecting his dedication to service in every aspect of his life.
First Sergeant Andrew M. Pait’s career with the NCHP is a testament to his unwavering commitment to making a difference in the community and ensuring the safety of North Carolina’s roadways. It’s a demanding job, but as Andrew himself puts it, “There is nothing else I would rather do than help the citizens of North Carolina.” His story is not just one of personal achievement but also one of profound community impact, embodying the spirit of service that defines the best of law enforcement.
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