Running head: CAREER RESEARCH AND CONCLUSION

Career Research and Conclusion

Jacob D. Gilgenast
Delaware Technical Community College

CAREER RESEARCH AND CONCLUSION

Career Research and Conclusion

Part I:
The Delaware State Police have been a presence in Delaware since 1923. The department
enforces law across municipal borders, aids smaller police departments in the state, and has a
number of their own units such as a motorcycle unit, patrol unit, the State Bureau of
Investigation, the Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit, and even a helicopter and
many more. . In addition, these units are based out of nine troop locations in Wilmington,
Newark, Dover, Georgetown, Bridgeville, Southern Wilmington, Lewes, and Odessa.
To be a part of this organization, one must attend a twenty-two week training academy,
pass a written test, be subject to a background test, have an oral board interview, have a
polygraph interview, and a physical fitness examination. Qualifications for training include being
a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 21 and 39, have attained a GED and at least 60 college
credits, Delaware residency, a valid drivers license, no criminal record, no illegal drug usage
two years prior, weight requirements determined by height and build, normal hearing, and vision
correctable to 20/20 with soft contact lenses.
The average day-to-day responsibilities of a Delaware State Trooper include patrol duties,
investigation, troop duties, maintenance activities, and special assignments. Patrol duties might
require and officer to direct traffic and respond to traffic violations. One may have to make
arrests, support other troopers, and safeguard other peoples property. In the course of their duties
many officers may be involved in a foot chase, responding to alarms at banks and businesses,
interviewing witnesses and suspects, and aiding injured people. When engaging in troop duties,
an officer would be required to communicate with radios and telephones, investigating road
conditions, and preparing reports. Maintenance activities might include exercise, testing, and

CAREER RESEARCH AND CONCLUSION

proper care of equipment, uniforms, and vehicles. Also, testifying in court, securing disaster
areas, relations programs, escorting dignitaries, conducting speeches and lectures, and training
recruits are all examples of special assignments. The salary of a trooper during training is 45,650
a year and after training an officer can earn 54,115 per year. Benefits include pension plan,
college tuition assistance, take home car, and membership for employees credit union.
Part II:
Preparation for a career as a Delaware State Trooper comprises of staying clean, a degree
and academic preparations, and physical fitness. Staying clean actively pertains to everyday
choices including the people one associates with. Coming from a Christian background, I have
an abundance of company who prize a clean lifestyle. Regarding a degree, I am currently
attending classes and in good standing with my academic performance. I have never had any
problems with academics and will study required material prior to testing for the academy.
During high school I was captain of the swim team and earned the high-point award. In order to
achieve such standing, I kept myself in peak physical condition as an athlete. Since high school, I
have strived to maintain the same levels of physical fitness by exercising and swimming every
day. I intend to continue holding these standards for myself until I achieve my goals.
Part III:
This exercise has taught me that while being a State Police officer would be a rewarding
job, it does not pay well. This is something I will have to plan for in the future. My FOCUS 2
results tell me that I am a team-player with leadership qualities that enjoys solving problems and
helping people. I can see myself actively using these attributes as a Delaware State Trooper and
anticipate using the information gained through the FOCUS 2 to encourage and focus my future

CAREER RESEARCH AND CONCLUSION

training to become an officer in law enforcement. At this current juncture, I do not believe that I
need to make a career advisement appointment.

CAREER RESEARCH AND CONCLUSION

Bibliography
dsp.delaware.gov. (2011). Retrieved February 25, 2015