I had the opportunity to work with the Legislative Protective Services (LPS) for my Legislative Assembly Placement, which provides a range of in-house security services under the direction of the Sergeant-at-Arms. I collaborated closely with Protective Service Officer Manager Maria, policy analyst Kate, and Protective Service Officers Bruno and Marty.
Over the 4 weeks, I worked on a qualitative study exploring digital and in-person strategies to enhance the recruitment of women to the Service. I love all things research and data, and truly immersed myself in the process! To familiarize myself with current discourse on the topic, I conducted a systematic literature review of 30 articles published within 10 years, and within Canada. I supplemented these findings by conducting semi-structured interviews with 8 Officers who identified as women. I then analyzed the data for recurring themes which I complied into an internal report to inform LPS’s ongoing recruitment strategies.
Listening to each Officer’s story and insights was the highlight of my placement. I am grateful to all the LPS staff who enthusiastically participated in my study and offered me endless support (and endless lemon cake)! My experiences in this placement have prepared me well as I transition into my Fall member placement.