Welcome to Step Up and Serve

On behalf of America’s sheriffs, police chiefs, and the men and women who serve in their offices, welcome to Step Up & Serve — the national campaign connecting Americans to careers in law enforcement.

The country needs more of you. According to the International Association of Chiefs of Police, more than 70% of agencies say recruiting is harder than it was five years ago, and law enforcement agencies are operating at about 91% of their authorized staffing nationally — a roughly 10% workforce gap that affects every community in America. A 2025 Police Executive Research Forum survey found sworn staffing is still 5.2% below pre-pandemic levels.

At the same time, the public is moving in the right direction. Gallup found that confidence in police climbed eight points in a single year — the largest annual jump for any institution Gallup measures. Confidence in local police now sits at 74%. The country is more ready to thank you for stepping up than it has been in years.

There are many ways to serve. You can become a sheriff’s deputy, a municipal police officer, a detective, a 9-1-1 telecommunicator who dispatches essential services, or a correctional officer who keeps facilities safe. You can also support law enforcement in a civilian role — records, evidence, IT, court security, victim services. These open positions aren’t just jobs. They are real careers with real pay, real training, and a real impact on the people around you.

You don’t have to take my word for it. Hear directly from law enforcement professionals on the Career Seekers page. Learn the basic qualifications, the academy path, and what each role pays. When you’re ready, our Get Connected form will help us route you to the right local resource in your state.

Thank you for considering a career that matters.

Jim Kaitschuk
Executive Director, Illinois Sheriffs’ Association
On behalf of Step Up & Serve

Illinois Sheriffs’ Association
3050 Montvale Dr, Suite D
Springfield, IL 62704
Phone: (217) 753-2372

Joining Illinois law enforcement isn’t just a job—it’s a career. We offer comprehensive training programs, advancement opportunities, and a supportive community to help you grow both personally and professionally.