If you have been thinking about a career in law enforcement and want to know more, an upcoming law enforcement career fair at the National Guard Armory could be the perfect opportunity.
From noon to 6 p.m. March 10, law enforcement representatives from local, state and federal level agencies will be at the armory at 90 Army Band Way, in Morgantown, to answer questions and discuss opportunities available within their departments.
Several local departments have been facing staffing shortages and are hopeful the event will give them a chance to reach potential recruits.
The Morgantown Police Department (MPD) is currently down 16 officers, according to Morgantown Communications Director Andrew Stacy, and is looking for applicants between the ages of 18 and 40 with a positive can-do attitude that want to make a difference in the community.
MPD will have a detective and a patrol officer available at the fair to answer questions about the department and current opportunities.
“Our officers are highly trained and respected throughout law enforcement. We place importance on training to ensure our officers are equipped to handle whatever they encounter,” Stacy said. “There’s so many options to pursue once you join our team. Once you become an officer there are several different career paths a new officer can explore such as Detective or Criminal Investigation Unit, special services, K9, Scuba, Drug Task Force, and more.”
The West Virginia University Police Department (UPD) will also attending. Chief Sherry St. Clair said the department has open positions for both University Police Officers and Campus Safety Officers.
When asked what they are looking for in a recruit, St. Clair said, “It is important for a potential hire to be able to carry themselves as both professional and approachable. A University Police Officer should have the ability to work with the public as a leader in the community.”
St. Clair said potential recruits who speak with UPD representatives at the career fair will be provided with information regarding the job requirements, hiring process and growth potential within the UPD and will have the opportunity to ask questions.
“Both a supervisor from the night shift and UPD’s Training Coordinator will be attending,” St. Clair said. “If anyone has any further questions regarding other specialty positions, they will be able to leave contact information for someone to reach out to them with additional information.”
The Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department is also actively recruiting new deputies, and will be at the event with information on working for the sheriff’s office and specialty positions it offers.
The Sheriff’s Office will hold testing for Entry Level Deputy Sheriff’s on March 26 for those interested in starting their career as soon as possible. Representatives for the Sheriff’s Office at the career fair will be able to answer any questions about the upcoming test and what it entails. Those interested can also call the Sheriff’s Office directly at 304-291-7260.
In addition to many local agencies, state law enforcement representatives from West Virginia State Police and federal agencies such as the FBI will also be in attendance at the event.
“You’re making an investment in your future and you’re becoming part of a team,” Stacy said when asked why someone should consider a law enforcement career with MPD. “We care about our community and we make a difference every time we put on the uniform. If you enjoy being challenged and you’re not interested in sitting behind a desk everyday then this is the perfect job for you.”
