SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom and the California
Highway Patrol (CHP) proudly mark a historic milestone: 50 years since women
first joined its ranks - paving the way for women in the Department. On September 30, 1974, a group of 40 women reported to the
CHP Academy as part of the Women
Traffic Officer Project (WTOP), launched as a trial to evaluate women's
fitness and capability as CHP officers. Of those women, 27 completed Academy
training and were sworn in as CHP officers on January 16, 1975. “On this important anniversary, we recognize the
trailblazing women who first entered the CHP 50 years ago and the many women
who have come after to make important contributions that help keep California
safe. These officers pushed against sexism and stereotypes to prove that
women can not only serve and excel in law enforcement but also play an
important role in making our communities stronger and safer. We thank this
vanguard group of women for their enduring legacy — defying sexism to
demonstrate that gender equality behind the badge is not only the right thing
to do but makes us all better off.” - Governor Gavin Newsom Since
that day, women have served in every aspect of the CHP, from riding
motorcycles and flying aircraft to taking on detective roles. On November 17,
2020, Governor Newsom appointed Amanda L. Ray as the 16th Commissioner of the
CHP, the first woman to lead the Department of more than 11,000 members. "Today, we celebrate
the incredible women who broke barriers and made history by joining the ranks
of the California Highway Patrol 50 years ago. Their courage and resilience
paved the way for future generations, not just within the CHP but across all
sectors of law enforcement. These trailblazers shattered stereotypes and
glass ceilings, proving that women are capable and willing to serve and
protect our communities. Their legacy reminds us that when women lead, they
strengthen the very fabric of our society." - First Partner Jennifer
Siebel Newsom Prior
to the WTOP, women were only permitted in non-officer roles. The dedication
of these trailblazing women forever changed the CHP, proving that women are
equally capable of performing the duties of a CHP officer. "Law enforcement is not
a 'male' or 'female' profession," said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee.
"It is a profession of service and sacrifice. The members of this
inaugural class served their communities with dedication, laying the
groundwork for future generations. We owe them a great debt of
gratitude." Over the weekend, several
members of the inaugural WTOP class reunited in Sacramento to celebrate their
legacy and share stories of service. A common theme emerged: their pride in
careers committed to community service and safety. To mark the momentous occasion, the CHP released a video that includes conversations with
members of the WTOP class and firsthand accounts of their experience 50 years
ago.
The CHP continues to lead as
one of the Nation’s premier law enforcement agencies. If you are considering
a rewarding career in law enforcement where you will build lifelong
relationships, visit www.CHPMadeForMore.com to
apply. In 1974, these women walked in to accept a challenge that changed
their lives and the CHP. You could be the next pioneer. The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of
Safety, Service, and Security. B-roll footage of the 50th
Anniversary Gala of the Women Traffic Officer Project is available for
download and use by the media here. | 
