AUSTIN – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, Texas Public Safety Commission Chair Cynthia Leon, and members of the Public Safety Commission today were joined by Texas State Senator Brian Birdwell as the department commissioned 77 men and women as the state’s newest Highway Patrol Troopers during the recruit graduation ceremony. Senator Birdwell was the keynote speaker during the ceremony, which was held today in Austin.
“These extraordinary recruits have endured months of intense physical and mental training to earn the privilege of becoming Texas Highway Patrol Troopers,” said Sen. Birdwell, who serves as chair of the Senate Committee on Nominations and the Senate Subcommittee on Border Security. “Each of you has selflessly answered the call of duty to protect and serve your fellow Texans; and the state of Texas is immensely grateful for your continued service and dedication.”
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.
“Today I want to welcome each of you to the DPS family as you begin this incredible journey as Texas Highway Patrol Troopers,” said Chair Leon. “Through pure determination and strength, you successfully mastered months of demanding training, and your accomplishments are an inspiration. Thank you for your commitment to helping others and keeping Texas safe.”
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.
“Today these 77 men and women join an elite company of officers with the critical responsibility of standing between Texans and all manner of public safety threats,” said Director McCraw. “The specialized training and instruction you have received over the last six months will be indispensable in fulfilling your duties as a Highway Patrol Trooper, and we are grateful for your courageous and selfless commitment to protecting and serving the people of Texas.”
DPS is currently accepting applications for the first recruit class of 2016, which begins in January. The application deadline for the January A-2016 class is Sept. 1, 2015; and applicants must complete and pass the physical fitness and written tests by Sep. 9, 2015. To apply or for more information about joining the Texas Highway Patrol, visit Joindps.com.
In addition, DPS schedules recruiting events throughout the year. To find an event in your region, visit Job Fairs/Recruiting Events.
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