PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) marked a milestone on Thursday as it welcomed 22 new officers in the largest swearing-in ceremony the bureau has held in more than two decades.
Largest Class Since 1999
The last time Portland saw a new class of this size was in 1999. City officials and police leaders said the ceremony represents a critical step toward rebuilding staffing levels that have lagged in recent years.
Revamped Recruitment Strategy
PPB’s Recruitment Unit credited a new, multi-faceted strategy for the surge in hiring. Recent efforts have included:
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Expanded advertising campaigns aimed at reaching broader audiences
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Social media spotlights showcasing the experiences of current officers
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Updated communication platforms that allow recruiters to connect directly with applicants
Officials say these changes have helped modernize how the bureau presents itself to prospective candidates, making the hiring process more accessible and appealing.
Improving the Candidate Experience
Beyond outreach, PPB has also focused on updating its customer service approach for applicants. Recruitment leaders said the goal is to ensure candidates feel supported throughout what can be a lengthy and demanding process, from the initial application to the final swearing-in.
Training and Standards
The bureau emphasized that while it is expanding its ranks, training standards remain rigorous. New officers will undergo comprehensive instruction before joining patrols, with an emphasis on community engagement, de-escalation tactics, and accountability.
PPB leaders said the new class reflects the department’s commitment to balancing staffing needs with maintaining high expectations for officer readiness and professionalism.
Looking Ahead
The addition of 22 officers is just one part of a broader push to strengthen the bureau’s workforce. The next Hiring Workshop is scheduled for October 11, offering prospective applicants an overview of the process. The session will also include a Physical Abilities Test, one of the required steps in advancing through the selection pipeline.
With the bureau working to recover staffing levels and build trust in the community, officials said Thursday’s ceremony was not only about welcoming new officers but also about highlighting a renewed commitment to public safety in Portland.
