Unlock Your Path to Policing: How to Stand Out in Your Police Application

September 24th, 2024

My name is Holly Faulkner, and I work in recruiting outreach with Peel Regional Police.

One of the most important things for us is that applicants are at least 18 years old and either a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident. Beyond those basic requirements, we’re really looking for individuals who want to give back to their community, who are eager to help others, and who want to be engaged. Physical fitness is also part of the testing process, so that’s something we always encourage. In addition to that, we value applicants who bring good life experience.

We’ve hired triOS students in the past, and they’ve been excellent additions to our team. They come with post-secondary experience, and they bring a real sense of engagement and community-mindedness, which is exactly what we look for. I’ve noticed that many of the students I’ve spoken to today have life experiences that make them stand out. A lot of them are coming to us for a second career. For example, I spoke to a man earlier who had come from Jamaica, where he was a firefighter. Now, he’s studying to be a paramedic, and that kind of background is incredibly valuable. Not only do you bring everything you’ve learned from your previous job, but you also have this new passion for the field you’re transitioning into, whether it’s policing or another role.

If you’re interested in joining Peel Regional Police, there are a few things to keep in mind when preparing your resume. Make sure you know your resume well and that you meet our minimum requirements. Highlight your volunteer experience, your current job, your education, and even details about your family and where you live. These personal touches are what make us say, “Okay, this is someone who’s ready.” It shows that you’re serious, and it makes me want to engage with you more. Part of my role in outreach is to mentor people through the application process and connect them with a recruiter.

Good communication is key in this process. Being able to engage with officers and not feeling too intimidated by the uniform is important. I know it can be intimidating, but just be yourself! If you’re outgoing, that’s great—we love that. Your resume, where you come from, and why you want to work for Peel Regional Police are all things we look for. Through internships, we can get to know more about you, but the most important thing is being genuine. I love meeting people who are truly themselves. That authenticity is what stands out the most to me.

At the end of the day, we’re looking for passionate, community-driven individuals who are ready to make a difference. If that sounds like you, then you may be a good fit for policing!

To learn more about triOS College’s Police Foundations and Security program, click here!