Testimonial for Mark Rhoads – Candidate for Lea County Sheriff
As a nuclear quality assurance professional and adjunct professor of nuclear technology at New Mexico Junior College, I have worked closely with Mark Rhoads at Urenco USA since 2009. In that time, I’ve come to respect him not only as a capable colleague, but as a leader of uncommon integrity, discipline, and public service mindset.
Mark brings more than 21 years of distinguished law enforcement experience in Hobbs, Lea County’s largest city, where he retired as a SWAT Commander and Captain. After his policing career, Mark transitioned into nuclear security force development and training, and then nuclear quality control and assurance—an industry that demands absolute precision and zero margin for error. He adapted quickly and now serves as a certified NQA-1 and ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, Quality Control Inspector, and Nondestructive Examination Inspector. These roles require the same rigor, accountability, and systems thinking needed to lead a modern Sheriff’s Office.
In addition to his formal qualifications, Mark works daily in an environment that demands strict adherence to the principles of a healthy nuclear safety culture, as well as compliance with federal reporting requirements under 10 CFR Part 21. This further demonstrates his commitment to transparency, accountability, and proactive risk management—traits that are essential to leading a professional and trustworthy Sheriff’s Office.
As an adjunct professor of nuclear technology at New Mexico Junior College, I’ve had the privilege to co-teach quality assurance material with Mark and observe him instruct in various training settings including, but not limited to, his concealed carry course that has been offered to thousands of Lea County and other New Mexico residents. His communication style is calm, clear, and deeply informed. He leads by example, never asking others to uphold standards he doesn’t consistently meet himself.
Mark also holds a federal (Top Secret) Q Clearance, the highest civilian security authorization issued by the U.S. government, which requires extensive FBI background checks and exceptional personal integrity. That level of trust speaks volumes about his qualifications to protect and serve at any level.
Beyond his technical and tactical skills, Mark is a servant-leader. He is a Deacon at his church and a member of the NMJC Welding Advisory Board, actively investing in the future workforce and local community.
In a further demonstration of his collaborative leadership style and community respect, Mark has asked current term-limited Sheriff Corey Helton to remain in service as his Under-Sheriff. This thoughtful decision ensures a smooth transition, preserves institutional knowledge, and reflects the deep mutual trust between two seasoned law enforcement professionals. It also signals to the citizens of Lea County that Mark Rhoads is committed not only to leading with strength, but to building on what works and advancing the Sheriff’s Office through stability and modernization.
Mark Rhoads doesn’t just promise to serve—he’s already proven that he can. He is uniquely equipped to lead the Lea County Sheriff’s Office with transparency, professionalism, and strength. I am proud to offer my full endorsement.
Sincerely,
Olimpio Torres
While not a resident of Lea County, I work in the county and offer this endorsement based on years of firsthand professional experience. My views are my own and not affiliated with any employer.