How Did They Do It? Success Factors for Women Pursuing Positions on Elite Police Specialty Units

32 U.S. women police officers holding positions on elite specialty units were interviewed to understand how they earned their positions and to compile advice for others. Participants’ advice – which included making good use of one’s patrol assignment and training for the selection process early– indicated that preparing for an elite assignment is a rigorous and long term process. The findings offer guidance for women who are likely to encounter roadblocks as they pursue elite specialty positions. Agencies, recruiters, trainers, mentors, and others can also use the information to help aspiring officers prepare.