Our History

Cross Island Consulting and Training Services, LLC was developed in 2016 to respond to the growing demand for training for public service agencies in all governmental levels.

We specifically assist public safety departments; land management-based agencies; departments with limited jurisdiction and/or regulatory enforcement authority; and institutions of higher education. Although this would appear to be uniquely eclectic, it draws upon the experience and skill sets of the company’s principal, and targets issues, investigations and training needs in all of the above areas.

​Finally, it addresses the often unfilled need that occurs upon the passing of loved ones who may, for whatever reason, lack the capacity to express gratitude for the life and contributions of the person remembered. While we may never understand one’s circumstances, we are not prevented from casting their life as the curtain draws closed in the most positive ways available. Non-denominational services and private ceremonies are our unique way to offering closure to those in need.

William M. “Bill” Overby
President & Principal Consultant

President and Chief Consultant William M. “Bill” Overby formed Cross Island Consulting and Training Services, LLC in 2016 after experiencing a series of unmet needs over the years in several functions of local, state and federal government.

Paramount to the mission of Cross Island Consulting and Training Services, LLC is the notion of integrity.  This includes leadership in public safety-related occupations, service to community and others, all done with humility, respect and accountability.

LEADERSHIP

​​Mr. Overby has served on the Boards of Directors of several local, state, and national organizations.  They include:

• Currently the Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO for the National Partnership for Careers in Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security, based in Austin, TX;
• Charter Chair of the Washington State Safety, Security and Emergency Management Council for the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges;
• Charter Chair of the Washington State Park Rangers Association;
• Currently on the Board of Directors for Boys and Girls Club of Skagit County, and Chair of the Programs and Safety Committee;
• Chair, Whidbey Island Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Care Council, (1986-87)

EDUCATION

Mr. Overby’s unique careers in park management, visitor and resources protection, law enforcement training and higher education (including security services) have provided a strong foundation upon which services for the company are delivered to its clients.
His educational and training background includes:

• Masters in Criminal Justice, Boson University, 2009;
• Bachelor of Arts in Recreation (Park Administration Emphasis), Washington State University, 1972;
• Henry M Jackson School of International Studies Session, Homeland Security and Domestic Terrorism, 2006;
• National Fire Academy, Emmitsburg, MD, 1982;
• Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco-Brunswick, GA,
• Washington State Patrol Academy in Shelton, WA.

EXPERIENCE

While employed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, Bill Overby managed several state parks and flagship units of the agency.  He also served as an agency trainer in several operational facets and in visitor/resources stewardship and protection.

After his 32+ year career with WSPRC was over, he transitioned into a role as a lead instructor and Chair of the Criminal Justice Department at Skagit Valley College in Mount Vernon, WA.  As part of his duties, he served as the Academy Commander in directing a National Park Service Seasonal Law Enforcement Training Program academy geared to train applicants for careers as protection law enforcement-certified Park Rangers for NPS, state parks, local and tribal parks, and other land management-based agencies.  The Skagit Valley College SLETP became one of only seven such federally-accredited academies in the nation, producing 18 academies under  his supervision.  In addition, he served as the Director of Security Services for Community College District #4, providing safety, security and emergency management solutions for two campuses, five centers, and multiple early childhood support offices in three counties.

Bill also directed a 320-hour Basic Law Enforcement Reserve Academy annually, under the auspices of the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission, and developed a 40 -hour Mini-Academy for Juvenile Corrections Officers.

Bill was the recipient of the President’s Award in 2007 for the Washington Recreation and Park Association.