MANISTIQUE, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Wednesday, Manistique High School students learned what it takes to become a Michigan State Police (MSP) trooper.
Troopers from the Manistique Outpost put students through the MSP Baseline Fitness Test. The physically-demanding test requires recruits to complete a series of push-ups, sit-ups, a vertical jump, and a half-mile run.
While the event did not begin the hiring process, it did give students a taste of what is expected of someone who commits to serving and protecting Michigan citizens.
“Everyone has different life experiences,” said Trooper and Acting Sergeant Michael Perkins. “Not everyone has exposure to careers in law enforcement or knows what a career in law enforcement takes. We’re trying to give all the kids here in Manistique that exposure so that if they do have interest, we can assist them in pursuing a career in law enforcement.
After the test, troopers gave students a presentation on the other steps required to become a member of the Michigan State Police. Perkins hopes such presentations will inspire future recruits, as there is a great need for upcoming MSP troopers.
“It is not as easy now as it has been in years past to fill our ranks,” he said. “Currently, the Manistique Outpost has seven troopers, and the capacity for troopers at Manistique is ten. We’re trying to appeal to local youths and community members to identify people that might want to come back to Manistique to be a trooper.”
Any young people interested in learning more about becoming a Michigan State Police trooper can contact Perkins at (906) 203-1838.
