Autism Training for First Responders. Call us for more information at 630-973-0799

Autism Training for First Responders

About

Learn more about our founder

Meet Stefan

Stefan Bjes is the founder of Blue Line Spectrum Safety, a training and consulting organization dedicated to improving interactions between law enforcement, first responders, and individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.

With more than 20 years of law enforcement experience, Stefan has served in various roles as a patrol officer, detective, school resource officer, supervisor, and trainer. He holds a Master’s Degree in Public Safety Administration and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, along with multiple certifications in Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) instruction, autism awareness training, and emergency preparedness for individuals with disabilities.

Stefan is a nationally recognized expert who has trained thousands of police officers, educators, and public safety professionals across the United States. His specialized programs focus on:

  • Recognizing signs of autism and developmental disabilities
  • Effective communication and de-escalation strategies
  • Crisis response and emergency planning for vulnerable populations
  • Reducing victimization risks and improving safety outcomes


In addition to leading Blue Line Spectrum Safety, Stefan serves as Director of Safety and Security for a large school district, where he develops inclusive safety plans and emergency protocols to protect all students.

Stefan’s dedication to improving safety for vulnerable populations has earned him numerous honors, including:

  • 2019 Juvenile Officer of the Year (Illinois Juvenile Officers Association)
  • 2021 Missing Children’s Law Enforcement Award (U.S. Department of Justice)

He also serves as a Team Adam Consultant for the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, assisting law enforcement agencies nationwide in child abduction and exploitation cases.

Stefan is married and is the father of three sons, two of which have Autism. Stefan has extensive experience, through his personal and professional life, in interacting with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

His mission is simple: to bridge the gap between public safety and the autism community by providing practical, real-world strategies that save lives and foster understanding.

Driven. Passionate. Committed.

Mission Statement

In support of the overall mission of public safety personnel, Blue Line Spectrum Safety LLC provides comprehensive training relating to the unique challenges of those affected by Autism and intellectual disabilities to promote a greater understanding between all.

View a Video Interview with Stefan Bjes
Empowering first responders

About our Classes

We offer specialized training programs designed to help public safety personnel and community members interact effectively with individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities. Our courses are expertly developed and led by Stefan Bjes, an Autism Instructor approved by both the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) and the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST). Stefan brings a unique perspective to his teaching, combining professional law enforcement training with personal insights as a father of two children with autism.

Our board-certified courses are conducted through Illinois Mobile Team Units or other ILETSB and IADLEST-approved facilities, ensuring that our training adheres to the highest standards of quality and relevance. Participants in our courses gain access to a broad array of skills, from communication strategies and de-escalation techniques to safety protocols. These practical tools are immediately applicable, equipping public safety professionals to handle interactions with care and informed precision.