BY DI SNEDDON
Settled with a wife and two kids approaching their teenage years, Adam Kiefel wanted a challenge and to work more with community so he joined the police force.
He was one of 349 new probationary constables in Class 368 to graduate at Goulburn Police Academy earlier this month, taking up a position in the Hunter in the Singleton command now temporarily based at Branxton.
He spent ten years driving trucks on the road but it was his past three years in security that spiked his interest in policing.
“Security was great, being in the Hunter I’d work at a lot of concerts in the vineyards which was great work but I just wanted a challenge and to work with the community, policing offered both,” Adam told The Hunter River Times.
He was further enticed when new recruits had the opportunity to participate in the Be a Cop in Your Hometown program and receive paid study.
“I did not want to uproot my family, we are settled here in the Hunter and the fact that I could work here and be paid during the 16 weeks study and training made a career in the police force possible,” Adam said.
“These two things were big ticks for me, it meant I could do it.”
Adam’s application was accepted in January and he spent 16 weeks in training at Goulburn, coming home to be with his family at the weekend.
He spent his first day on the job on May 4 and is enjoying the teamwork, the camaraderie and the challenge.
“I like solving problems, I like speaking to people but in this role it is important to listen, not make any judgement and treat everyone with respect.
“There is a level of excitement, you never know what is going to happen and what you will be doing.
Adam was among about half a dozen older recruits in his class.
“I hope my story inspires other people my age, people with families, to consider a career- change to the police force.”
For the next 12 months, Adam and the other probationary constables will complete on-the-job training and study by distance education. At the end of the 12-month period, they will officially graduate with an Associate Degree in Policing Practice and confirmed to the rank of Constable.
