AUSTIN – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw today was joined by Texas Public Safety Commission Chair Cynthia Leon and members of the Public Safety Commission (PSC) as the department commissioned 123 men and women as the state’s newest Highway Patrol Troopers. PSC Commissioner Randy Watson was the keynote speaker during the recruit graduation ceremony, which was held today in Austin.
“Becoming a DPS Trooper requires an immense commitment, and it is a job that will demand your utmost devotion – thank you for selflessly taking on that challenge and answering the call to duty,” said PSC Commissioner Watson. “From this day forward, you are building on a foundation that will shape and guide you throughout your entire career, and I encourage you to always endeavor to achieve great things.”
The new troopers will report to duty stations across Texas in the coming weeks and spend the first six months in on-the-job training.
“As you start on your journey as a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper, I want to welcome each of you to the DPS family,” said PSC Chair Leon. “Your accomplishments are truly an inspiration, and I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate the person you’ve become and the path that brought you here today. I have confidence that you will make us all proud.”
The troopers began the 23-week training academy in January. Instruction covered more than 100 subjects, including counterterrorism, traffic and criminal law, arrest and control procedures, accident reconstruction, first aid and Spanish. They also received training in use of force, communication skills, firearms, driving, criminal interdiction, cultural diversity and physical fitness.
“During the past six months, these 123 men and women have risen to every challenge; and today, they join the front line protecting this state against the full gamut of public safety threats,” said Director McCraw. “Thank you for your courageous commitment to serving the people of Texas, and DPS is pleased to have you carry on the legacy of this premier law enforcement organization built on integrity, excellence, accountability and teamwork.”
DPS is currently accepting applications for recruit classes scheduled for 2017. The next application deadline is July 13 for the class beginning Jan. 8, 2017. To apply or for more information about joining the Texas Department of Public Safety, visit www.joindps.com.
In addition, DPS schedules recruiting events throughout the year. To find an event in your region, visit /trainingacademy/recruiting/recruitingEvents.htm.
### (HQ 2016-71)