Special Operations Training Association  Welcome to Special Operations Training Association of the Upper Midwest.  We are currently building our new site so please stop back to see the new changes in place! What is S.O.T.A.? Special Operations Training Association of the Upper Midwest is a non-profit organization comprised of public safety personnel; including tactical officers, crisis negotiators, safety personnel; legal advisors, communication support, and paramedics. The association was created by its members and for its members to bring special operations training to all the public safety organizations in the upper midwest.