Phoenix police to hold women’s expo in hopes of recruiting more females

PHOENIX — With women only making up roughly 14% of the Phoenix Police Department, an expo is being held Saturday that aims to recruit more females to the force.

The Phoenix Police Women’s Health and Fitness Expo will highlight the women part of the organization, including officers, detectives, and 911 call dispatchers.

“It’s definitely a more male-dominated field, but I do think that is changing,” Officer Shelby Meinhardt told KTAR News 92.3 FM on Thursday.

She is expected to speak at Saturday’s expo and hopes to inspire other females to get on the force.

“Just don’t hold back, go for it,” she said. “There’s all kinds of resources out there for you.”

Female officers will share stories of how they have balanced motherhood and police work, successfully graduated from the police academy and the future of women in the profession.

Stacie Hainke, a 911 dispatcher, will also be there to answer questions about her role.

“We’re basically the unseen heroes,” Hainke said. “We answer not only 911 calls but the non-emergency line and dispatch officers.”

The expo isn’t just going to be focused on talking about what the career is like. They also want to break a sweat.

They will be hosting 30 minute H.I.T.T. sessions, as well as yoga.

“This is a great event to come out and meet great women who truly make a difference everyday,” Phoenix Police Sergeant Mercedes Fortune said.

“We have a great department that is led by very strong women. Chief (Jeri) Williams is a huge proponent in getting women involved.

The event will be from 9 a.m. to noon.

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