A career in the criminal justice system, as most industries, can be difficult to obtain and excel in. Most large companies, universities, and even professional membership organizations have systems in place to facilitate, if not provide, mentoring programs. This is not the case in our field. Throughout my law enforcement and student careers I have sought such an opportunity and found nothing. I had hoped at least for some assistance finding, if not an offer of, a mentor from my supervisors. The teachers I had presented this same question to have not been much help either, not for a lack of trying, as I have on occasion said, the criminal justice system is very obstinate. My question, if it is not already obvious, is this; do you know of any place to find, or begin to look for, a mentor within the criminal justice field?
Well, here it is. I have worked for the past 3 years developing just such an organization. I have consulted with advisors in the areas of business and mentorship programs, each of whom deserves my thanks, and at long last I am able to offer the opportunity I had always hoped for. This membership based mentoring program is designed to match member mentors to junior members best suited to one another's experience and goals. Additional services are intended to ease the entry level applicant's search process, and enhance every member's career path. 911 Job Hunter will bridge the gaps between individual officers nationwide, learning institutions and law enforcement agencies.
Understanding the application process, and having the perseverance to enter the law enforcement field is testament enough to the intelligence and dedication of every officer. Once in, it does not end. What are the testing requirements? What opportunities will best fit the career path I would like to follow? Do I understand this announcement/admonishment/award/etc correctly? Am I following the path I set out on? The answers to these questions are not always as simple as they seem. Relying on buddies doesn’t always simplify them either, in fact this can confuse things further. Having a mentor that has been through the ringer, and has the experience to help us through the daily and monumental changes of a law enforcement career will make great impact on our success and the professionalization of the field. I am glad to finally offer this service to my brothers and sisters in law enforcement, as well as future officers and agents.
Through mentoring we can all help one another in that endless hunt for the next level we persistently strive for.
Stay safe.
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