Preparing for a Career in Law Enforcement: Insights from Former Police Officers

Interested in becoming a police officer? Transitioning from military service, trades, or other professions can provide unique advantages when entering the law enforcement field. In this article, we’ll explore the diverse backgrounds of successful police officers, revealing insights on the types of jobs that best prepare candidates for a career in law enforcement. We will also discuss the practicalities of pursuing a career in law enforcement and the benefits of obtaining a college degree and military experience.

Transitioning to Law Enforcement from Diverse Fields

Different paths can lead to a fulfilling career in law enforcement. Take, for example, my ex-partner in the marine corps, who worked as an aircraft electrician before transitioning to the Dallas Police Department (DPD). According to him, DPD provided everything without cost, including training and necessary equipment and certifications. However, smaller departments often require candidates to have certifications or prior experience, and may even prefer to hire family members or friends due to limited resources.

Similarly, my son, who worked as a Military Police (MP) officer in the Marines, aimed to join a sheriff’s department or smaller department post-military service. Unfortunately, many sheriff’s departments require candidates to have worked in a jail setting for a couple of years. Moreover, he found that he had to buy his own uniforms, equipment, and a gun that couldn’t be used within the jail anyway. Small towns largely prefer candidates who are somehow associated with the city, such as being a family member or a friend.

My background includes a military service of four years and a college degree, which have proven to be significant advantages when entering the law enforcement field. People with military experience tend to handle stressful situations more calmly, and a college degree is increasingly becoming a necessity for both hiring and promotions. The degree doesn’t have to be in a field related to law; instead, it can add value by improving problem-solving and communication skills.

The Importance of Military Experience and Education

Works like my friend’s suggest that military experience is a valuable asset. It not only provides discipline and leadership skills but also a cultural understanding that can be beneficial in law enforcement. As an MP in the army, I had the opportunity to serve on a hiring board multiple times, where I evaluated the candidates' work records and sometimes prioritized those with prior police experience.

My journey after the military included various jobs such as working as a gas station attendant, a waiter, and a truck driver before becoming a police officer in 1978. In my experience, the most crucial aspect of a candidate's background is a strong work record. Having part-time or reserve police experience is seen as a definite advantage. Some departments also prioritize candidates who are already certified officers.

Challenges and Benefits of Different Hiring Processes

Hiring processes for law enforcement can vary significantly between big city and small town departments. Big city departments often have fewer restrictions, providing training and equipment without cost. Some departments may even recruit from across the country during a hiring spree. My ex-partner’s academy class, for example, included participants from other states across the country.

Big cities usually don’t require candidates to provide their own uniforms and equipment, unlike small towns, which often want people associated with the city, such as family members or friends. My son faced this challenge, as many sheriff’s departments prefer candidates from within the jurisdiction or those who can prove their association with the community.

Conclusion

Entering the field of law enforcement requires careful consideration of one’s background and transition plans. Whether coming from military service, trades, or other professions, a strong work record and a college degree are essential. Additionally, military experience provides valuable discipline and leadership skills, making candidates well-suited for the rigors of law enforcement. Small town departments often have more restrictive requirements, so candidates should be prepared to meet these expectations or seek opportunities in larger, more supportive environments.

By leveraging these insights, aspiring police officers can set themselves up for success in this challenging and rewarding career path.