MHC alumnus recognized as Rookie of the Year
Growing up, Constable Taylor Olenic never saw himself pursuing a career in law enforcement. Fast forward to 2020, and he’s being recognized as Rookie of the Year at the national level by Blue Line magazine.
Olenic’s family and friends influenced his path in many ways, from sharing their own positive experiences attending Medicine Hat College (MHC), to recommending he explore a career in corrections to get a taste of the world of law enforcement.
Olenic graduated from the criminal justice program at MHC in 2015, an experience he credits as a valuable introduction to becoming a police officer.
“The courses I took at MHC, such as introduction to law and criminal code, helped make the transition into training easier. The small class sizes gave me the opportunity to build rapport with my peers and instructors, which made me feel comfortable asking questions and taking advantage of the instructor’s open door policy," says Olenic.
"It felt like we were a big team and made going to class every day easy.”
Following graduation, Olenic spent a few years working as a corrections officer and now serves as a constable in the Medicine Hat Police Service (MHPS). His day-to-day responsibilities include maintaining order through progressive and professional policing, conducting patrols of the city, executing outstanding warrants, and interacting with the public. It was the fast-paced, ever-changing environment that first drew him to the job, and his future ambitions include covert work on a drug enforcement team.
Olenic’s advice for others interested in his line of work is to first connect with a member of the service and go on as many ride-alongs as possible.
“Some people think it is what they want, however a ride along can sometimes change their mind,” shares Olenic.
“The MHPS is a great organization to be a part of, and I’ve been fortunate to work with multiple people who have taken me under their wing and have helped me get to where I am today.”
Olenic says his experience at MHC had a positive impact on his life, from the many benefits of being able to study in his hometown, to building on-going friendships with his classmates and opening the door to landing his dream job.
“MHC is a great place to learn. If you’re passionate about law enforcement, MHC is the place to be.”
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