For Immediate Release

Date:                 February 1, 2008

Contact:             Office of Government, Policy and Public Relations

Phone:              (303) 318-8004

Fax:                  (303) 318-8070

Web:                 http://www.yourworkforcecenter.com/ or http://www.csp.state.co.us/

ROCKY FORD WORKFORCE CENTER TO HOST HIRING EVENT
FOR COLORADO STATE PATROL

February 20th event offers opportunity to individuals interested in a career in a prestigious law enforcement agency

(ROCKY FORD) – The Rocky Ford Workforce Center and the Troop 2-C La Junta State Patrol Office are holding a recruiting event for highly motivated individuals interested in exploring a career as a State Trooper.  This collaborative effort will assist the Colorado State Patrol in achieving their strategic goal of recruiting qualified candidates.  Minorities and Spanish speaking individuals are particularly encouraged to attend this event.

                            When:          Wednesday, February 20, 1 PM – 5 PM

                            Where:        La Junta Senior Citizens Center

                                                            114 East 2nd Street

La Junta, Colorado

Although no previous experience in law enforcement is required to become a State Trooper, the job does require extensive training and the Colorado State Patrol will pay you while you receive that training.  Troopers receive a starting monthly salary of $3,498 as they complete the mandatory 22-week State Patrol Academy.  Salaries increase after graduation when Cadet Troopers are certified as Level I Peace Officers and assigned to a 10-week Field Training Program.

“Skilled state troopers are in high demand due to a growing shortage in many states including Colorado,” says Betty Velasquez, director of the Rocky Ford Workforce Center.  “But we know this isn’t a job for everyone.  It requires a commitment to law enforcement work, an ability to think clearly and work well under pressure.  Candidates are held to a very high standard but for the right people, being a State Trooper can be an exciting and fulfilling career.  And this recruitment effort can be the open door to that career.”

If you have an interest in the profession, this free event will offer a unique opportunity to meet with recruiters from the Colorado State Patrol, get your questions answered and perhaps take the first step on an outstanding career path.  If you have questions about this hiring event, contact the Rocky Ford Workforce Center at (719) 254-3396 or call Sgt. Tom Iovinella of the La Junta State Patrol Office at (719) 384-8981.  You can also learn more about becoming a State Trooper by visiting www.csp.state.co.us and clicking on “careers.”

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