Bowling Green, Ohio – The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is reaching out to the community with a dedicated recruitment and testing event on September 21 at the Wood County Regional Airport, located at 1261 E. Poe Road. The event is designed to streamline the first steps of the hiring process for aspiring troopers, allowing candidates to complete paperwork, a written exam, and a physical‑fitness assessment in a single visit.
Event Schedule and What to Expect
Doors open at 9 a.m. for a question‑and‑answer session with current troopers and a static display of an OSHP aircraft. At 10 a.m., the formal testing portion begins. Applicants will be able to speak directly with troopers, submit an application, take the written test, and immediately move on to a fitness assessment. This “one‑stop” format is intended to reduce the time between application and academy enrollment for qualified candidates.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible, applicants must be between 20 and 39 years old, U.S. citizens, possess a high school diploma or GED, and hold a valid driver’s license. The OSHP encourages interested individuals to submit an application ahead of the event, though on‑site applications will also be accepted. Prospective recruits should dress in business‑casual attire for the interview portion and bring appropriate workout clothing and athletic shoes for the fitness test.
How to Get Started
Those ready to begin the process can text “JoinOSHP” to 614‑654‑6747 to receive a link to the online application. For additional information, applicants may contact Sergeant Dana Skinner at 419‑619‑1926 or Trooper William Watson at 614‑359‑9064. The OSHP also offers ride‑along opportunities for prospective candidates; interested individuals can coordinate with their local OSHP post to schedule a shift‑time ride‑along.
Why This Matters for the Community
Recruiting locally helps ensure that the OSHP reflects the values and concerns of the neighborhoods it serves. By holding the event in Bowling Green, the Patrol makes the application process more accessible to residents of Wood County and surrounding areas, supporting families who wish to pursue a stable, honorable career in public safety. The presence of an OSHP aircraft on display also offers a tangible reminder of the agency’s commitment to protecting Ohio’s highways and communities.
Looking Ahead
Successful candidates will move closer to joining an upcoming academy class, where they will receive the training required to become fully commissioned troopers. The OSHP’s proactive outreach aligns with its broader goal of maintaining a well‑staffed, professional force capable of responding to the safety needs of Ohio’s citizens.
Community members who are interested in a career that combines service, discipline, and the opportunity to protect families are encouraged to attend the event and explore the possibilities offered by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
