Expert: Loren Stevens - 11/27/2007

Question
i am 17 years old and about to graduate from high school and what i really want to do with my life is become a swat operator and i was wondering what the qualifications are to become a swat operator

Answer
Hello Chris,
I've written extensively on this in the past. If you would, please review some my prior answers on the same subject. If you don't find the counsel there, please let me know, and we'll address it again.
In summary, you'll need to focus on an entry level job first, like uniform patrol officer. You'll be at that for est 4-6 years would be my guess, prior to getting a realistic shot at a specialized assigned.
I'd urge you to concentrate on the entry  level job, and distinguish yourself there.
Keep in mind, that only about 10% or less of all police applicants get hired, and an additional % wash out in training.
Then, the competition for specialized assignments get pretty keen. You'd be going up against officers with more seniority than you, many of which were former military, and some of those were  Special Forces.
Focus your schooling and attitude on the entry level first. As your career evolves, you'll come to know what it will take to roll into a specialized assignment.
Good Luck,
Regards,
loren