On September 16, 1974, 32 women across Canada simultaneously took the oath to become RCMP police officers. They arrived at the Training Academy (Depot) as Troop 17 on September 18 and 19. In March 1975, they completed their training and started work as the first women police officers in the RCMP at detachments across the country.
Troop 17 was a significant milestone, involving a group of women who, despite encountering challenges and systemic barriers, made a difference in their communities and their country. While many women had support at their first postings, many also encountered significant challenges, including gender-based harassment, violence and discrimination. Their resilience and perseverance have helped the RCMP work to correct inappropriate behaviours. Meaningfully addressing known challenges is critical to successfully improving our culture to create a healthy, inclusive and trusted workplace for all our employees, and ultimately enabling us to achieve operational excellence.
Without a doubt, these women showed what was possible for women in the RCMP, and inspired other women to join – and that trend continues. Today, women are an integral part of our workforce. Approximately one fifth of the RCMP's police officers are women, with more and more women in leadership roles. We actively recruit women to consider a career in policing and women can proudly serve in any of the RCMP's 150 career specializations. From Constable to Commissioner, anything is possible for the proud and dedicated women who serve in this historic organization.
Mike Duheme
Commissioner
Read more
- Women in the RCMP
- Our stories – read first-hand account from current and former employees
- Public servant becomes RCMP officer, credits influence of strong women mentors
- Four members of Troop 17 reflect on earning credibility and sticking together
- You don't need to be G.I. Jane to join the RCMP, says Corporal Danielle Laroche
- Retired RCMP Commissioner Bev Busson shares her thoughts on teamwork, leadership and her 'glass half full' approach (Q&A)