Women In Policing is a new Edmonton Police Service initiative that recognizes the unique skills and qualities that women bring to the job.
Increasing our female membership is a priority to ensure that our members continue to reflect the community we serve.
You can read all the details at www.womeninpolicing.ca. This special page of our recruiting website addresses some of the key areas that have been identified as concerns for women when it comes to choosing a career in policing.
On Saturday, June 5 there was a one-day seminar where 25 potential candidates learned about different aspects of policing with a variety of female officers.
Female EPS members share their stories with candidates
Insp. Teri Uhryn, who has been with the EPS for 29 years, was one of the presenters.
“When I signed up for this job, I really thought I could help people and make a difference . . . I like to think that I’ve done this. I’ve helped lots of kids to stay out of trouble. I’ve helped women escape really bad marriages, and I’ve helped new immigrants settle into their new lives.”
Const. Tina Klenke works with the EPS Recruiting Unit. She has been a sworn member for 14 years.
“The process is competitive and, to compete, you need to prepare to come to us with your best. Ensure you know the process inside out and apply when you are ready to compete.”
“Don’t change who you are, just prepare for change. Challenge yourself! The process, the training and the job can be tough, but I can’t imagine doing anything else. I love my job. I look forward coming to work, can you say that?”
Candidates took part in fitness activities
Bill Gillespie, Physical Fitness Director with the Training Branch, shared fitness and nutrition tips. He advised the candidates to “be prepared to meet strenuous physical challenges. The EPS fitness standards are among the highest in the country.”
“Fitness training, including physical readiness and recovery, is a key component in overall recruit training,” stressed Gillespie in his presentation.
He told the group that recruits need to be prepared for days that may see as much as six hours of physical activity. These six hours can include many elements of recruit training from fitness to officer safety.
After the classroom session, Gillespie put the candidates through a brief but relatively intense series of drills that challenged many of the women outside their comfort zone.
Watch a brief video highlighting the seminar
The 25 candidates who participated in the event had all met, or were very close to meeting EPS applicant requirements. They came from all walks of life, from security officers and office workers, to Police Cadets and students.
“Each candidate brought a unique skill set to the table,” noted Const.Tina Klenke.