Captain Heather Glogolich

1. Why did you become a police officer?

I became a police officer because I wanted to make a difference in the community. The opportunity to be outside and have my day to day change was an environment I felt I would thrive in. I have always had a passion for servant leadership and at the entry level of law enforcement, that is what our officers do. They are tasked with making decisions for other people when they call for a law enforcement response. Being afforded the opportunity to help people in so many different situations was appealing to me.

2. What motivates you to succeed?

This has changed over the years for me as I am about to complete my 20th year in law enforcement. Part of striving for success initially, was the fear of people not feeling I was supposed to be a part of this career. As time progressed, the motivation to succeed transitioned into fulfilling my personal sense of self and accomplishment. And currently, my motivation to succeed comes from wanting to make a substantial impact for the next generation of LEO’s. I want them to know that as individuals we bring so much to the table, that nothing can hold them back other than their own self-limiting beliefs, and that they can push beyond barriers to achieve everything they want.

3. What’s your most memorable moment on the job?

I was able to deliver a baby on duty and in turn, the parents asked to name her after me. It was an incredible moment to be a part of because often we deal with incidents where we are present for the last moments of someone’s life. It was an honor to be a significant part of someone’s first moment of life.

4. What challenges have you faced?

The challenges are never ending and this is not strictly because of being a female in a male-dominated profession. However, I have had to sue my previous agency for pregnancy discrimination. I also had to fight for promotions and assignments at my previous agency. I was also a victim of domestic violence by my ex husband who was also a cop and then there was the aftermath of that. Working through the perceived stigma of being a female cop who “allowed” that to happen to her was difficult. As I went through the process of restraining orders, the court system, divorce, and continued co-parenting, I often felt alone and unsupported and with full transparency, I was scared to even ask for help.

5. What advice do you have for women considering a career in policing?

Be all in. Know that if you want to be a mom, you can be a great cop and a great mom. You do not have to choose between either. Do not look to have standards lowered so you can be a part of this career. You have to have a certain GPA to be accepted into college, the same mindset should be applied to entering this profession. Criminals do not discriminate on who they attack based on gender. Put the work in physically and mentally. Do not depend on other people to dictate your self-worth. And know that if this job is your calling – then you are very blessed.