Women’s Recruiting Bootcamp


This is an opportunity for women who are keenly interested in pursuing a career in policing to attend CPS Headquarters for an immersive two-day experience. The aim of the event is to help participants determine if policing is an appropriate career path for them, whether they are ready to apply, and to learn more about the unique dynamic women bring to the Service.

The application for the October Women’s Recruiting Bootcamp is now open!

Application Deadline: Thursday, Sept. 19 , 2024

Saturday, Oct. 19 & Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024

This event will give participants the opportunity to have candid conversations with some of our female members to discuss what to expect as a police officer in Calgary, common stereotypes, work/life balance, mental health, and other important aspects of modern policing in the city.

On Saturday, participants will take part in a meet and greet, a guided imagery session focusing on the A-PREP and Leger, and an introduction to Skills.

The following day, Sunday, participants will experience multiple stations that demonstrate the physical requirements of the job and take part in several high-intensity activities and challenges built to demonstrate the mental resiliency and mental and physical toughness required for the role. This includes completing an A-PREP Orientation, running the full fitness test, a Q&A with our Fitness Unit, and other breakout stations involving scenarios and equipment familiarization with our Skills Unit.

Additionally, on Sunday, participants will receive a presentation from Brian Willis, former member and instructor at the CPS and President and CEO of Winning Mind Training.

Brian Willis is recognized throughout North America as a catalyst for change in the law enforcement profession and a man with many questions. Brian was a full-time police officer for 25 years and has over 33 years of law enforcement training experience. He is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution and commitment to Officer Safety in Canada, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of his contributions to the law enforcement profession, and the Law Officer Trainer of the Year award. In addition to his work with law enforcement professionals, Brian has served as a mental preparation coach for athletes from various sports, including two Olympic athletes.


Application for participation:

Through trial and research, we have determined that participants receive the most benefit when group sizes are kept to a minimum. As such, if you are interested in participating in this weekend workshop you are asked to apply for one of 36 spots by submitting a one-page letter detailing the following:

  1. Why you would like to attend the Women’s Recruiting Bootcamp
  2. What experience*, education, skills and characteristics you possess that would make you a great police officer
  3. What steps you have taken to demonstrate interest and/or prepare yourself for the Calgary Police Service application process

*This includes background, employment, community involvement and volunteerism


Note: We will contact selected participants via email on the Wednesday prior to the first day of the Women’s Recruiting Bootcamp to confirm attendance. Individuals who are on the waitlist will be contacted accordingly via email if a spot becomes available.

Cancellation Policy: We kindly ask for a minimum of 48 hours’ notice if you are selected to participate and are no longer able to attend. We will be documenting attendance; please be considerate of those on the waitlist


Requirements and Preparations:

Be prepared for a vigorous workout! Participants will complete an A-PREP orientation, where they are familiarized with techniques and exposed to the Leger and the Pursuit Restraint Circuit. They will also participate in various scenarios, circuits and physical challenges.

To be eligible to participate in the A-PREP Orientation portion of the event, you are required to bring the following medical clearance form, completed and signed by a physician. To download the form please click here.

COME PREPARED WITH THE FOLLOWING:

– Confirmation email (required for entry)

– A pen and paper

Medical clearance form, completed and signed by a physician. To download the form please click here.

– Wear workout clothing and appropriate footwear

– Bring a bottle of water and snacks

– Yoga mat (if available to you)

A light lunch will be provided by the CPS.