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(Grand Island, NE) -- For 15 recruits, training begins now to become the next members of the Nebraska State Patrol. They will go through a 22 week process in Grand Island.
Captain Andy Ecklund is the Director of Training.
"The training is very rigorous," Ecklund says. " It's going to challenge them mentally and physically. It's designed to transform them into well-trained state troopers that are going to be able to protect the community and serve the citizens of the state."
He says the application process is a long one for those who hope to serve.
"They have to complete several steps along the way," Ecklund says. 'Background investigations, polygraphs just to make it here. And, out of several hundred applicants, we're only starting with 15."
Everybody's road to becoming a State Trooper is different. Shania Daugherty, from Hallam which is near Lincoln, says it started in school for her.
"I had a career fair during school that kind of opened my eyes to what the state patrol does and all their opportunities," Daugherty says. "Later down the road, I did two different ride alongs and that, I think, really solidified what I wanted to do."
The class is expected to finish the training process in mid-June. Applications for the next class open in February.
