Leadership Biography
Carrie Buhlman is the Chief of Police for the Eagle Police Department in Colorado. With more than 19 years in law enforcement, she has worked her way through the ranks, building a reputation for strong leadership, a commitment to public safety, and a deep understanding of the challenges facing rural and mountain communities.
Chief Buhlman is passionate about strengthening the profession by building leaders at every level. She brings a practical perspective shaped by experience in smaller agencies and is committed to ensuring those voices are represented in broader conversations around policy, leadership, and the future of policing. She believes every agency and every professional, regardless of size, location, or rank, plays a critical role in moving the profession forward.
Before joining the Eagle Police Department, she served with the Vail and New Castle Police Departments located in Colorado. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her service and leadership, receiving the Life Saving Award, Silver Medal of Valor, and Outstanding Service Award.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement from Minnesota State University and completed her Master’s degree in Public Safety Leadership from Drury University. Chief Buhlman currently represents the Northwest Region on the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police Board and serves on the executive board for SpeakUp ReachOut, where she advocates for the needs of mountain and rural communities.
Chief Buhlman completed the FBI-LEEDA Trilogy in 2021 and has continued her development through additional LEEDA coursework, including the Media and Public Relations course. She also completed the inaugural Five Star Chief Executive Institute in 2026. As a strong believer in LEEDA, she has intentionally invested in her team by supporting their participation in LEEDA courses and leadership development opportunities. Under her leadership, the Eagle Police Department earned the FBI-LEEDA Agency Trilogy Award in 2025. Chief Buhlman was elected to join the FBI-LEEDA Executive Board in June of 2026.
She is an active member of FBI-LEEDA, the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police, the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE), and the Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executives Association (SRLEEA). Her continued professional development includes advanced leadership training through FBI-LEEDA, Northwestern University, and the FBI Rocky Mountain Command College.
Chief Buhlman is deeply committed to officer wellness and the well-being of first responders and their families. She believes taking care of those who serve is essential, and she works to foster a culture where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to grow as leaders while continuing to serve their communities.