Women's Page: In Their Own Words...

Sergeant
Robin Johnson

Current Position: EVOC Instructor, CHP Academy

"In just a short time on the California Highway Patrol (CHP), I've worked patrol in a car and on a bike in Westminster and on a bike in West Valley. I have also had the opportunity to work temporary assignments in Recruitment and the Department's Health and Safety Section in Sacramento. Now I work as an instructor at the CHP Academy. Prior to joining the Department, I coached a softball team at a community college in northern California and was pursuing a career in firefighting. I was fortunate enough to meet several officers with the CHP who sparked my interest in the Department with their enthusiasm and professionalism. I never thought a career in law enforcement could bring so many opportunities for diversity in assignments."

Officer                                                                                                                        Diane Clark

 Current Position: Pilot, Air Operations Unit

"I am currently assigned to Coastal Division Air Operations as a helicopter pilot. The helicopter is used in search and rescue, medical transport, and for crimes in progress. I have FAA commercial and instrument certificates in fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. The fixed-wing training I acquired as a civilian, but the helicopter training was acquired through the U.S. Army.
I graduated from the CHP Academy in 1985. I've been assigned to the Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Gilroy Areas, as well as a resident post on the Big Sur Coast. In my not-so-free time, I maintain my 20-acre almond orchard in the Templeton Hills."

Sergeant
Shelley Barlow

Current Position: Sergeant, Yreka Area

"People always ask me, 'How did you end up in law enforcement?' My response is simple. I found something that interested me and got lucky. I was 20 years old and attended junior college in Fremont, California. I attended a job fair and was so impressed by the representation of the CHP, I signed up that day and have never looked back. I've had positions in the Auto Theft Task Force and in Commercial Enforcement, and am currently working as a Sergeant in Yreka. I truly love being a part of the community and serving the people where I work."

Sergeant
Laura Clare

Current Position: Sergeant, San Francisco

"I am currently a sergeant in San Francisco. I have a lot of duties assigned to me, but my favorite duty, and the one I am most passionate about, is being the coordinator for the Physical Methods of Arrest program. This is where I ensure that all of our officers, and sergeants, are kept proficient in their officer safety techniques and tactics. When I'm not working hard at my job, I'm working hard at staying fit (a holdover from being a PT instructor at the CHP Academy). I also enjoy spending time with my family, which includes five-year-old twins, and representing the Department in fundraising events in the community, such as the Susan G. Komen "Race for the Cure," the Special Olympics Torch Run and the Cable Car Pull."

Lieutenant
Jonni Fenner

Current Position: Lieutenant, Stockton Area

"As I have moved about the State throughout my career, I have worked in both field and administrative assignments. Currently, I am assigned to the Stockton Area as a field sergeant supervising road patrol officers, which is challenging and exciting. A great benefit is the shift work which allows me to enjoy an abundant amount of quality time with my husband and children. It's awesome to be able to have the flexibility to make those once in a lifetime softball and baseball games, Taiko drumming performances, school field trips, and to have time to just be a parent. These are part of the many great benefits and opportunities afforded to me as member of the California Highway Patrol.  I wonder whoever said you couldnt have your cake and eat it too!"
 

Assistant Chief
Debbie Vertar

Current Position: Assistant Chief, Enforcement Services Division

"I have worked for the CHP since 1980, starting out as a Public Safety Dispatcher II, assigned to the San Francisco Area. Since joining the CHP as an officer, I have worked in the Commercial Vehicle Section, and of course (with my prior experience) as supervisor of the Communications Center in Sacramento. I have a brother and a nephew that are also on the patrol, so holiday gatherings are always filled with interesting and exciting conversation. As a single mother, I am most proud that my career has allowed me to raise my two sons in a beautiful home and to provide for all of their needs."

Captain
Sandra Houston

Current Position: Captain, Indio Area

"I've worked as a road patrol officer in Central Los Angeles, patrolled the southern California coastline in San Juan Capistrano as a sergeant, worked special assignments in the Office of Assistant Commissioner, and the Office of Public Affairs in Sacramento. I am a Physical Methods of Arrest Instructor, Officer Safety Instructor, Physical Fitness Coordinator, Field Training Officer, and a certified Emergency Medical Technician. I joined the California Highway Patrol after earning a B. A. Degree in Social Relations from U. C. Riverside and working for a short time at United Parcel Service. I balance my career with the California Highway Patrol with a great family."

Assistant Chief
Carolyn Carlson

Current Position: Valley Division Office

"The CHP is considered a large family and we work hard at taking care of each other. The choice I made over 24 years ago to join the CHP was a great decision and each of my assignments have been challenging and fun. Although I have been fortunate to promote within the organization, I could not have done so without the support of peers and supervisors. One of the greatest strengths of the CHP is the quality of our people and the support we give to one another. I look forward to the remaining years I have with the Department before retirement with my husband. If you are considering a career with the CHP, you will enjoy the camaraderie and professionalism I have always enjoyed. Come be one of us!"