Tell us about yourself
My name is Michael Webber; I’m 46 years old and presently hold the rank of Sergeant. I have been a police officer for approximately 23 years and at present, I am a Patrol Supervisor in Division One.
Since becoming a sworn officer in November 1983, I have held many positions within HPS. Some of those include:
Uniform Patrol (cruiser)
Foot Patrol
Parks Patrol Officer
Recruiting Officer
Race and Ethnic Relation Officer
Divisional Detectives Office- Mountain/Dundas Station
Professional Standards Branch Officer (Public Complaints)
Uniform Patrol Supervisor and
Media Officer (2006)
At present time I am involved with the community Group- Urban Native Homes, where I sit on the Board of Directors. I have been with this Organization for approximately 16 years. I volunteer my time here because I find the work to be very worth while. UNH is in the business of finding suitable housing for Aboriginal people in the Hamilton area. The work is challenging and I have met many people from our diverse community.
I am a graduate of Mohawk College- Civil Engineering Technician Program (1983). After graduation, I worked for Stelco engineering for approximately 4 months before I was laid off, due to a large strike at Hilton Works, which affected their Engineering staff.
I then applied for and was accepted at McMaster University and was prepared to return to further my educational background, when a family member told me the Hamilton Police Service was recruiting. I spoke with an existing member of the Service (a black officer) who gave me his personal insights into policing and what it was like to be a black officer in the City of Hamilton. I found this conversation helpful in my decision process.
I applied in September of 1983, took the required tests (written, physical and psychological) and was successful in my application. I was sworn in as a Constable on November 7th, 1983.
Since becoming a police officer I continue to upgrade my academic skills. I am enrolled at Mohawk College, Continuing Education Program, and completing the Ontario Management Development Studies Certificate. Once completed, my goal is to take part-time studies at McMaster University to obtain my university degree in Social Sciences.
Why did you choose policing as a career?
I chose a police career as the result of a challenge from my sister, the social worker. I had always thought about policing as a career choice, and my being laid off allowed me the opportunity to pursue this goal. I knew if I didn’t like it, once I became a member, I would have the opportunity to leave. Policing isn’t like the military where I would be obligated to remain for an extended period of time (2-4 years). I knew if didn’t like it for any reason, I could always leave and pursue my university studies. Fortunately for me, the people I work with were fantastic and made my career choice a good one that I wouldn’t regret.
How fit do you need to be?
Physical Fitness is, and continues to be an extension of my life choice. I was always fit in high school and college. I either watched or participated in nearly any sport that I was exposed to. Fitness is a requisite part of policing. The shift work, staying up late at nights, being available for “call ins” causes you to maintain a high level of fitness. Although not mandatory for officers who have passed their probationary period, I think it should be part of your life.
What satisfies you about your job?
For me, job satisfaction comes from community involvement. I want to bridge the gap between the black/diverse community and the police Service. Policing should involve a partnership with ALL of our diverse community groups and partners. We must work together. We can’t have a diverse group who feels threatened or not part of our community. The police Service should be an extension of all our communities, diverse or otherwise. Diversity must be represented by our officers.
What really surprises you about being a police officer?
Surprises? Nothing more surprises me about policing. I’ve seen society at its best and worst. The opportunities that I’ve encountered as a police officer gives me a greater perspective on life. I no longer see people as upper, middle class as I was brought up by my parents. In Hamilton we have many homeless people and those who are disenfranchised by society. We can’t ignore them. They also have a voice and must be heard.
What do friends and family think of your work?
My friends and family are supportive of my career choice. Policing in Canada is an admirable profession. It is looked upon favourably by the community. When people see me they know they will be given an opportunity to be heard. It also lets the black community know that they are part of our family community.
Would you recommend a career in policing?
I would recommend policing as a career option to be considered. It provides a feeling of personal fulfillment, its rewarding and provides stability to my family. Policing is not for everyone. My suggestion is, if in doubt ask someone! Don’t judge the career with what you see on television or heard 2nd hand from someone else. Television is not preventative of Policing in Canada or Hamilton. Speak to a police officer who will give you the facts, good and bad.
Policing requires a certain skill set. Most of the technical skills that are required are learned and anyone can do it, if you are motivated. There are academic challenges; however if you have completed high school, college or university, the academic part can be conquered. If you like challenges, are prepared to work with and talk to others, can take direction and is willing to learn, I think policing should be considered.
Speak to someone you know, or someone who will take the time to tell you the situation as it is!!! Be prepared, ask questions of the human resources staff, speak to present officers, and get an informed decision!
If you have any questions about being a police officer, or about the Hamilton Police Service, please email me at mwebber@hamiltonpolice.on.ca