Chicago Area Police Lieutenant Values Education
Frank Trost is a police lieutenant with the Elgin Police Department. Lieutenant Trost states that law enforcement is a challenging career. It is unlike any others out there. His focus is to help those in need. The environment can be ever-changing, as can the interactions with the community. Trost has witnessed the worst and best in human kind and feels his position is very rewarding on many levels. Every day is different for Trost, yet every day he tries to make a positive difference in someone's life.
Lieutenant Trost served in the US Army and then attended Elgin Community College to earn an Associate of Science in business in 1996. He completed his Bachelor of Science in business management from National Louis University in 1998. Trost went on to earn his Master of Art in law enforcement and justice administration from Western Illinois University in 2005. He just recently began the doctoral program in interdisciplinary leadership at Governors State University.
What are the scope and responsibilities of your current role?
"I am currently in charge of the Special Investigation Division. In this division, my responsibilities cover the Gang Unit, Drug Unit, Crime Free Housing Unit, Resident Officer Program, Unit for Special Assignment, Community Relations and Crime Prevention."
What is your favorite part of your daily duties?
"My favorite part is the constantly varied activities. One day my focus might be McGruff the Crime Dog, visiting some schools, assisting the Senior Center or coordinating a major crime investigation."
Do you feel your education prepared you for your current role?
"I feel that my education has prepared me for my current role. I have a varied educational background. Having a varied background is very useful in my field."
Do you have any advice for people who desire to pursue a similar career?
"If you are passionate about helping others and acting for those that cannot, then this is the profession for you. Never limit yourself on the type of education you are pursuing. Also never stop learning. Understand a key to success is good communication. Find an organization that fits you and learn what makes them unique. Do not get discouraged as law enforcement can be a tough career to begin. Always be honest with yourself and understand that you will be working long hours, weekends, holidays and missing many family events because of your new profession."
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