Milwaukee Police Department hiring, open house held
MILWAUKEE - The Milwaukee Police Department hosted an open house hiring event Saturday, March 5.
"We’re looking for those who have a desire to serve their community," said MPD recruiter Ralph McClain. "People always talk about the ‘warriorship’ mentality. We definitely need that, you have to be safe. That’s the way to keep yourself safe, your partner safe and the community as a whole. But you also need the guardianship mentality as well."
Saturday's open house allowed for prospective officers, like Isaiah Lewis, to see what it would be like to go through the academy.
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"When I was younger, I always wanted to be a police officer. I always thought of them as a hero, and now as I’ve gotten older I’ve had to find the steps for what it takes to become an officer," Lewis said. "It's pretty cool, actually, getting the knowledge to know what to expect in the academy."
People like Lewis got to ask questions, learn about the department's application requirements, check out some police animals and take part in a physical readiness test.
"Sometimes we need to use skills that we obtain in the gym like strength and agility, but also just from a mental health standpoint to keep ourselves healthy – mind, body and soul," said McClain.
MPD hopes those who feel compelled into a career of service will join the force to help keep the community safe.
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"Looking at something like this, it’s a big opportunity, big step," Lewis said. "Most of my family are not in law enforcement, aren’t even thinking about law enforcement, and for me to be the next person up to be in law enforcement is a plus for me."
Anyone interested in becoming an officer can submit a police academy application online until March 18.