July 19, 2024
Civilian employees, which include forensic scientists, administrative assistants and data specialists, among other many other specialties, comprise a third of the employees within the Michigan State Police (MSP).
In support of the department’s Strategic Direction, which includes a focus on employee wellness and development, the MSP recently hosted a two-day professional development conference specifically for non-uniformed, non-managerial employees. More than 700 civilian employees attended.
“We have never held a conference specifically for the civilian members of our agency,” said Jessica Riley, manager of the Civilian Career Development Section in the Organizational Development Division, which organized the conference. “Our civilian employees are nothing short of extraordinary and we wanted to celebrate the impact they make and bring them together with colleagues from across the state, some of whom they may never have met in person before.”
Topics discussed included leading with purpose, building relationships and employee retention. There were discussion panels consisting of both civilian and enlisted members along with interactive breakout sessions.
“The uniform and badge often define a police agency, but our civilian employees are just as important as our officers,” said Capt. Ken Dilg, commander of the Organizational Development Division. “None of us could do what we do without each other.”
Initial review of attendee feedback shows 80% of attendees would like to see a similar conference again in the future.
“This was a first for me in my almost 29 years with the MSP,” said Janet Robinson, a department technician in the Criminal Justice Information Center. “This kind of inclusion makes employees feel like they are a part of the bigger picture and valued.”
Persons interested in learning more about civilian careers with the MSP can visit www.michigan.gov/mspjobs/civilian-careers.
