Expert: Loren Stevens - 1/28/2009

Question
Hi, my name is Anthony and I am 18 years old. And I was wondering, how do you become a police officer or a swat member.? And do you have to join the service to be involved in those two fields?

Answer
Hello Anthony,
First, I'd like to invite you to review some of the previous Q&A on my page, as this subject comes up frequently.
And, when you ask about joining the service, I assume you mean the military service.
So, I'll proceed with the second part of your question first. The short answer is NO, military service is not a prerequisite for either police work, or special operations such as SWAT.
However, military service in general does have the capacity to help you attain some desired qualities, such as experiencing emergency team work, operational discipline, stressful challenges, organizational appreciation, mission specific etc, etc.
And, there are subdivision units in the military that do in fact have the capacity to enhance KSA's (knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) in areas that would make you a more attractive candidate as a police or SWAT officer in the future.
Army Special Forces, and Rangers, Navy SEALS, Marine Force Recon, Air Force Rescue Teams et al.
The over all military experience is one thing, but in terms of learning or being tasked with skill sets that apply to civilian law enforcement is quite another. ALL military jobs, or "MOS" are important to the military, be it cooks, mechanics, administration/clerical, supply etc, and these jobs don't necessarily dove-tail into police skill sets.
At least, that is my opinion.
Volunteering for the military is a personal decision each person needs to make, with their eyes wide open.
Even though you are 18, I would suggest you consult with your folks, or a trusted relative or a school career counselor prior to speaking to a recruiter. Then, you are more prepared to make a more informed decision.
SWAT is a subdivision special ops unit in a medium to large law enforcement agency, usually in the uniform field services division.
There is a wide variety of skill sets that are considered for this duty, and members are cross trained. The competition for this duty is usually spirited, where the candidates who can pony up the best/most KSA's will tend to be favored.
Most local and state police departments require a HS of GED for minimum education completion, no drugs, or alcohol abuse, not a problem with a poor driving record, no domestic violence issues etc.
Able to pass an entry general knowledge test, polygraph test, background investigation and so on.
The two pillars of import, are: character, and honesty.
Only about 10% of applicants get hired, so you need to do well in the application process. I expect the competition to even be more keen, during tough economic times, and scarce jobs.
If hired, you need to pass the police academy, then be assigned to an FTO (field training Officer) as a break-in partner. You need to do well and distinguish yourself at the entry level position, to even be considered for any special assignment later on. You won't even be able to petition for a special op duty, until you are off probation. So, in my view, don't look for much of a shot to something like SWAT for 4-6 years.
All the while, get as much training as you can.
Well young man, I think this is enough to get you started, and things to ponder.
If you need more, let me know.
Good Luck, and Regards.
loren