By WKTV Staff
The Kentwood Police Department is inviting individuals who are interested in a career in law enforcement to attend its recruitment event on Thursday, Oct. 13.
The event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. and include two one-hour sessions at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about KPD’s sponsored police recruit position and other employment opportunities, connect with current officers, tour the department and more.
The informational sessions will be held at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., beginning with an overview about working for the department. Attendees only need to attend one of the sessions, which will cover the same information. Tours, networking and opportunities to learn more about specialized units at KPD will follow. Refreshments also will be provided.
“As a midsized police department, we provide both a family-like atmosphere and ample opportunities for growth,” Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin said. “We’re seeking passionate, community-driven individuals to join our team. We look forward to connecting with potential recruits at this event and showcasing the great culture we have at Kentwood.”
The event will feature information about all department employment opportunities, with a special focus on the sponsored police recruit position. Selected police recruit applicants will receive a full scholarship from KPD to attend the Grand Valley State University Police Academy or another approved police training program in spring 2023.
In addition to the police academy sponsorship, recruits also receive competitive pay throughout the academy, comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, a 9 percent employer retirement plan contribution and continuing education and training. Individuals who successfully complete the academy and other required certifications and training will be sworn in as patrol officers with the Kentwood Police Department. No prior law enforcement experience is necessary to apply for this position.
“Our recruit position provides a path for individuals to become full-time Kentwood police officers with a full sponsorship to a local police academy,” Litwin explained. “This position has been an important part of our efforts to recruit both traditional and non-traditional students and to hire individuals who are representative of Kentwood’s diverse community.”
No pre-registration is required for KPD’s recruitment event and no prior law enforcement experience is necessary to attend. Attendees should plan to bring something to take notes with.
Individuals who are interested in working for KPD but cannot attend the event can receive more information by contacting Recruitment Officer Ryan Smith at smithr@kentwood.us. More information about the event can be found at kentwood.us/KPD2022. To find current job openings at the Kentwood Police Department and apply, visit kentwood.us/employment.
