Expert: Loren Stevens - 9/6/2006

Question
hi Loren im a 14 year old at sonora high school and want to pursue a career as a SWAT member when i graduate. First i was wondering if you could tell me the educational requirements for a SWAT member. Secondly i was wondering what positions a SWAT member has avliable i.e. sniper, negotiator stuff like that. i want to compare jobs in a law enforcement to jobs in the army, and navy. Thank you for youre time loren it would be very helpfull if i got this information.  

Answer
Hello Michael,
It's good that you have an interest in SWAT, as do many young people who inquire.
However, you should know, that SWAT, is a special assignment within an organization.
A SWAT officer must first demonstrate s/he can perform the primary duties.
Many federal and state agencies have a SWAT type unit, but I assume you are thinking local law enforcement.
First, you need to be hired as a grunt level rookie uniform police officer. The average of those being hired, is a shade under 10% of applicants. Then, you need to pass the academy, where an additional X% wash out. Then, you work with an "FTO (field training officer) in the streets for a period of time, where you are learning, and being assessed continually.
It is a rare thing, to be considered for a special assignment within a police agency, until you are off probation (a period of from one to two years). During that time, you will be continually evaluated to see how you measure up to agency standards.
I can tell you with absolute certainty, that if you do not excell at entry level duties, you won't be considered for a special assignment.
NOBODY spends a career in a "special" assignment like SWAT. Those officers leave after various periods of time, for many reasons: retirement, promotions, injury, fitness problems, "personal" problems, burn-out, change of interests et al.
However, the turnover rate in SWAT is not real fast either. Therefore, when openings appear, the competition gets spirited.
Those who have "special" skills that are relevant, tend to be looked on with favor, by the SWAT cmdr, or whoever does the selecting.
Those who have been in the military in general are also looked on with positive views, as they are experienced with team-work, and discipline, organization etc.
Those with enhanced credentials, include: Marine Recon, Navy SEALs, Air Force Commandos, and Army Special Forces, or Rangers.
Being certified in first aid is good, as is marksmanship with a variety of weaponry. Knowledge in ordnance, and chemical munitions is good, repelling skills is good, fitness is good etc. ANYTHING you can put on the table that bolsters you as a candidate is in your favor to do so.
At your age, you may want to consider a job in your local police agency other than as a commissioned officer, which usually requires an age of 21 and older.
Jobs such as: courior, cadet, runner, vehicle/maint. etc. This gives you an understanding of an agency as an INSIDER. Plus, you'll be building service time for seniority and pension issues. You'll also get to know who's who on the department, as well as the organizational mdl.
Generally, agencies reimburse employees their tuition for college courses taken, and receiving an acceptable grade. This amounts to a decent little scholarship. Get as much Criminal Justice courses as you can, prior to becoming 21. Those first 2 years as a rookie cop, you won't have the time for college.
Along with CRJ courses, take plenty of written and oral communication classes. They will serve you well during your career.
In terms of SWAT, don't make that an end all-be all to your LE interests. In a career, you won't speed that much time working special assignments...probably.
Concentrate on being an outstanding cop, first and foremost.
Now, at you age, stay away from problems, eg., drugs, alcohol abuse, or butt-head friends. Even being in proximity to trouble can splash on you, and have a negative impact on your plans.
Well, hope this has been helpful.
Good Luck,
loren