Shreveport police say theyve never seen it before: former GM workers signing up to keep you safe.
With the companys plant set to close by 2012, KTALs Karen Hopkins found some ex-auto workers are shooting for a more stable career in public service.
From hummers to handcuffs… trucks to tasers…
Shreveport police say as more General Motors workers leave the line, many are shooting for a career that never shuts down: public safety. “General Motors hires quality people, of a high intelligence level and thats what were looking for," Sgt. Ron Vanni said.
SPD just hired Grenetta Boyce, who worked 12 years for the automaker "I didnt want to be one of the last ones down the road holding out."
Now shes got a new calling. As a dispatcher, shell handle emergencies, asking crucial questions to send you help before it’s too late. “It’s just the difference of knowing you can help save someones life," Boyce said.
SDP recruiters have seen a boom in applicants. Most recently, 300 people applied for an academy class with 27 slots. “A lot of officers talked about quitting to go to GM to make more money, but now things have changed. Now theyre coming here to start another career,” Vanni said.
As for Boyce, shes ready for whatevers down the road.
Looking to apply? Here’s how you can get an edge:
1. Get in shape. You’ll have to pass a physical fitness test.
2. Practice interviewing. A board questions all applicants.
3. Prepare for your civil service test. The deadline to sign up to take the test in Shreveport is August 27th. The test date is October 19th. If you miss it here, you’ll have to take it in another city. Here’s the link to testing schedule:
http://ose.state.la.us/testing_entrancepolice.asp
With so many applicants, an SPD recruiter says having a college degree and previous law enforcement experience could set you apart.
