Questions?

Women often have common concerns when thinking about a career in policing. Below are some topics that may help you in deciding on a career path with Edmonton Police Service.

Physical Ability

A high level of fitness is required to meet the physical readiness evaluation requirements, and to do the job…so training a week before your A-PREP probably won’t cut it. We are looking for healthy, fit people who have incorporated active living into their lifestyle.

Start training now and with some commitment you will set yourself up for success. Be prepared by checking out the physical readiness evaluation prep guide, which details the assessment and provides some training tips. 

The A-PREP is not geared more toward men and is an unbiased and valid assessment tool that was developed to effectively identify individuals who possess the physical capabilities needed to meet the rigorous demands of policing. But remember, physical fitness does not happen over night and the recruits that do well in training have incorporated physical activity into their lifestyle.

Recruit training is hard both physically and mentally…we throw a lot at you. Preparation is key and expect to be challenged. Everyone in class is expected to give 100% and all members of the team will support and encourage you. It’s a team atmosphere. Regardless of gender, there is an expectation that you will keep up and come fit (ready to serve).

Job Suitability

Many people ask about the suitability of women as police officers. Women are wanted on the job and they are valued for their unique approach to policing, their enthusiasm for the job and willingness to help the community. Male members appreciate the contributions female officers make and will often request to work along side them in different areas because of this.

Dangers of the Job

Police officers (both male & female) are extensively trained. Although officers are often called into risky situations, they are equipped with the knowledge, tools and skills to handle all situations that a member may encounter. And remember…you will never go into a call alone. Team members are often called in to support members when beginning a call.

Being fit and training hard helps applicants develop into strong and competent police officers. Our officers are expected to diffuse situations and take control.

For example, we train recruits in verbal judo, which is just one of the tools that officers have when encountering difficult situations!

Family Life

Many female officers want to start a family someday and are concerned about the difficulty of doing this with shift work and varying schedules. It can be challenging, especially in the first part of your career. But it can be done through time management and support.

After three to five years in patrol, you can apply to different places within the EPS where the shift schedules may be more conducive to family. During training, you will definitely need to create a strong support system, as the three blocks will be very strenuous and taxing on your time, energy and emotional state.

A large part of family life is where you live and where your children go to school. EPS tries to accommodate your first choice of the division you would prefer to work at, but you may not get that choice. Once you are in your division though, you can stay there until you are ready to apply to a different posting. We are a city police service, so you won’t be posted to other cities.

If you have further questions, please email us or call us at 780-421-2233 or 1-866-777-0815.

You can also drop by and talk to one of our recruiters at the Edmonton Police Service Recruiting Centre located at 10177-97 Street.

Watch out for our next special Women in Policing Information Session and register!