FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 18, 2018) — One year ago, the Kentucky State Police announced a change to its hiring policy that would allow trooper cadet applicants, who did not have 60 hours of college credit, to earn those hours while attending the training academy.
This legislative change is already paying dividends as nine cadets in the current academy class have earned an Associate’s Degree in General Occupational and Technical Studies from the Bluegrass Community and Technical College. One of those cadets has achieved the distinction of being Cadet Class #96 Valedictorian. Had it not been for this new program, these nine individuals would not have had the opportunity to apply for the academy.
Lt. Brad Arterburn, KSP Recruitment Branch Commander, said solid applicants were being passed over because of the longstanding recruitment policy that required a college background. Some people, he said, can’t afford college or have to skip it because they have families to support and this gives those people a chance to become a trooper.
“It’s not that our numbers were getting drastically lower, but this program provided us with a broader pool to choose from to make sure we’re getting the best troopers,” said Arterburn.
Prior to the new guideline, applicants were required to have 60 hours of college credit, two years of active duty military experience or two years of certified police officer experience.
“So, if after high school you went to work in the factory or the coal mines or family farm, now’s your chance to see if you have what it takes to join our ranks,” added Arterburn.
For more information about becoming a state trooper, visit the Kentucky State Police Recruitment website at www.kentuckystatepolice.org Applicants may also call the Recruitment office toll-free at 1-866-360-3165 during office hours from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday or leave a message any other time
