New officer fits well into Nelson Police Department
Nelson’s newest police officer has just made quite the impression in her first month on the job.
Lisa Schmidtke was formally introduced to the Nelson Police Department Board last week by Chief Wayne Holland who said she hit the ground running upon arrival.
“Even though she’s a newcomer to the force, Lisa’s probably seen more in one month of service than the average recruit,” he said. “She’s been in a great number of rough and tumble incidents.”
Schmidtke joined the Nelson Police Department after 11 years with the West Vancouver Police Department. Her previous experience comes from service within the Community Services Unit, the Forensic Identification Unit and general duty on patrol work.
Graduating high school in Penticton, she has a Bachelor’s degree in anthropology.
And soon she will have completed her BCIT Technology Certificate in Forensic Sciences.
“This is one immensely qualified individual. I almost didn’t believe her resume when I first started to see it two years ago when she started to apply here,” said Holland.
Having completed 30 days on the job with the NPD, Schmidtke is active as a volunteer in schools and has expertise in emergency lockdown procedures.
“Since she’s been here she’s surpassed our expectations, even in this short duration of time,” said the chief.
Schmidtke previously lived in Nelson, working in the hotel services industry, and is now here with her husband and family. She is happy to be back.
“We feel very fortunate to be part of this community,” she said.
Her husband works for Canada Post Corporation and together they have two school-aged children. They are pleased to be in Nelson, raising a family and enjoying the area’s outdoor playground.
“We are luck to be employed and have our children here in this education system. It’s a wonderful community and we’re really proud to be part of it.”
Holland said her friendly smile and jovial nature accompany a willingness to jump in where she’s needed.
“She’s hard-working and her personality and energy are most welcome here,” he said. “There are big things coming out of this young lady.”
Schmidtke is the fifth woman to serve on the force in its history.
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