NICEVILLE — Rhonda Willis simply smiled when asked about what she thought of being the Police Department’s first female sergeant.
“It’s an honor to be the first,” Willis said. “It seems like the last couple of years more women are getting into this field, and we’re making strides.”
Ten years ago, the mother of two would never have dreamed of a career in law enforcement, but she was promoted to sergeant Monday along with fellow officers Richard Austin and Robert Stovall. Joseph Kernes was promoted to staff sergeant.
In 2005, Willis was managing an eatery at Tyndall Air Force Base before she moved to Niceville to be closer to family. She got a job as a dispatcher with the Police Department and became fascinated with law enforcement.
Willis continued to work as a dispatcher while she attended the police academy, and became a Niceville police officer in 2007.
She has worked the beats and midnight shifts and has served as a detective.
“I think being a woman and a mom have made me a stronger person,” Willis said. “This is a man’s field, but I’ve never been disrespected. I demand respect and I give respect.”
Willis says the biggest difference between her and her male co-workers are her maternal instincts. A kind word and extra patience gives her a nurturing presence that works to her benefit.
“I’m very proud of her and all the sergeants,” Niceville Police Chief David Popwell said. “I’m doubly honored that she’s our first female sergeant. Not that it really matters. We’re not gender biased, we’ve just never had a female sergeant. It’s awesome and hopefully we’ll be able to continue this in the future."
Willis said she plans to move up the ladder as far as she can.
“I just like helping people,” Willis said. “A lot of people are scared of the po-po, but I like to let them see we’re human. We care. And for women out there considering this job, it takes a special person to do it, but if you want it don’t let anyone tell you no.
“Someone saying no is unacceptable, so you just step right on and keep at it.”
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Angel McCurdy at 850-315-4432 or amccurdy@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @AngelMnwfdn.
