Officer Krista Bayley
University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department
Madison, WI
Q: Why did you become a police officer?
My initial drive to join policing was to help people and give back to my community.
Q: What motivates you to succeed?
The importance of representation of women and members of the LGBTQIA+ community in policing in general, and even more so in specialty positions, pushes me to want to continue to expand my knowledge and skills within this profession.
Q: What’s your most memorable moment on the job?
Graduating from Police Motor School was definitely one of my most memorable moments and biggest accomplishments in my career thus far. It was physically and mentally grueling but felt so good when I passed.
Q: What challenges have you faced?
Obtaining a healthy work/life balance is probably one of the larger challenges I’ve faced and continue to face during my time in policing. I have learned to lean on my support system more when I’m feeling burnt out.
Q: What advice do you have for women considering a profession in policing?
You’ll face folks who may not believe you belong in this space as much as your male counterparts. Don’t forget the value and unique perspective you bring to policing. Keep grinding and never give up.
How we’re changing policing
The 30×30 Initiative is a coalition of police leaders, researchers, and professional organizations committed to advancing and supporting the representation, experiences, and well-being of women at all levels of law enforcement, both in the U.S. and beyond.
Research shows that women play a crucial role in building community trust, de-escalating conflict, and improving public safety outcomes, with evidence linked to reduced use of force and enhanced relationships with the communities they serve. However, women represent less than 14% of sworn officers and 20% of recruits in state and local law enforcement agencies. Additionally, about 40% of the approximately 18,000 law enforcement agencies in the U.S. have no full-time women officers (Source: Bureau of Justice Statistics).
We are collaborating with hundreds of agencies to make law enforcement a profession where qualified women who are drawn to it feel welcomed and supported while ensuring agencies address their unique needs and foster their success.