The Grande Prairie Police Service is moving quickly to advance the city’s policing transition, welcoming its third recruit class just weeks after the graduation of Recruit Class #2.
The selection for this class was once again highly competitive, with more than 300 applications received. The rigorous hiring process includes written and physical assessments, multiple interviews to evaluate character and organizational fit, polygraph testing, psychological evaluations, and comprehensive background checks. GPPS is being highly selective, choosing only the top three per cent of applicants to move forward.
The class of 10 brings a wealth of diverse personal and professional experiences to the new service. Seven are from the Grande Prairie and Peace River areas, while the remaining three have moved to the city from elsewhere in Alberta. Their previous work experience ranges from Community Peace Officers, sheriffs, and support case workers to welders, electricians, fitness coaches, and other service providers.
“This class represents another important step forward in building a police service that is both rooted in our community and strengthened by diverse perspectives,” says GPPS Chief of Police Dwayne Lakusta. “I’m proud to welcome them to the team, and I know their dedication and determination will help shape the culture and future of policing in Grande Prairie.”
Over the next six months, the recruits will undergo Lethbridge Polytechnic’s Police Cadet Training program, along with specialized instruction in areas such as firearms, control tactics, physical fitness, community policing, crisis communication, Indigenous learning, interviewing techniques, and mental health first aid.
Training will take place at GPPS’ Recruitment and Training Centre at Northwestern Polytechnic, as well as at regional facilities like the Eastlink Centre, Wapiti Shooters Club, and NAPA Auto Parts Raceway in Beaverlodge. Recruits receive a full wage during training.
Recruitment is now open for GPPS’ fourth recruit class, set to begin in spring 2026. For more details, visit joingpps.com.
