McCollum begins law enforcement career with Airway Heights

Officer Joseph McCollum had about 10 minutes to talk before he was out the door on another call.

McCollum is one of two new officers recently hired at the Airway Heights Police Department and is currently doing his full-time training.

The department hired has two officers and plans to bring on two additional personnel this year. In a January interview, Police Chief Lee Bennett said one of the reasons for hiring more officers is because of increased commercial and residential development happening in the city, as well as the upcoming Spokane Tribe casino project.

When asked why he chose law enforcement as a career path, McCollum, who grew up in Spokane Valley, said police work was something he had "always thought about doing" as it gives him a chance to help people.

"And being a police officer allows me to help people on a daily basis," he added.

After McCollum received his associate's degree from Spokane Community College, he joined the Air National Guard. He said the experience helped shape him into the person he is today.

"The qualities they taught us and how officers led by example really stuck with me," McCollum said.

McCollum earned his bachelor's degree from Eastern Washington University, majoring in interdisciplinary studies with a focus in psychology and film. While the focus on film was "more of a hobby" for him, McCollum said studying psychology will help him with his police work when it comes to communicating with citizens.

After McCollum acquired his degree, he learned about the opening police officer position at Airway Heights and immediately applied. Once he took the tests, the department offered him the job.

"As soon as I got it, I immediately said 'yes,'" he added.

Bennett said McCollum was the first applicant in his time with the department who had no prior experience in law enforcement or security.

"He's what we called 'fresh to the job,'" Bennett said. "He doesn't come with any pre-disposed habits that we have to modify. He's young, enthusiastic and I think he's going to do an excellent job."

McCollum recently completed the police academy training. He said the academy's atmosphere and structure reminded him of his days in the Air Force.

"The instructors challenged you but they were also willing to help you," McCollum said. "Everyone was willing to help, it's just how police culture is. If you needed anything, they would be there in a blink of an eye."

As a part of his training, McCollum is working with Officer Erin Lance, who has been with the department since July of last year. He said they patrol and respond to calls together. As times goes on, Lance will allow McCollum to work more cases by himself.

"She'll still be there when I need help," McCollum added. "She's all about guiding me and making me more proficient at the job."

McCollum said he has enjoyed his time in Airway Heights so far, calling it "the best job I've ever had." As for his future in law enforcement, he wants to be a part of "any team that will have me."

"All of the opportunities that are open to me, I want to go for (them)," McCollum said.

Al Stover can be reached at al@cheneyfreepress.com.