Editor’s note: This feature is part of Police1’s eBook, “Elevating women in law enforcement: Strategies for professional growth and career development.” Download the eBook here.
Rachel Tolber was appointed chief of police for the Redlands Police Department in June 2023. She began her law enforcement career as a student intern with the Redlands Police Department in 1997, performing as a research assistant. In 1998, the department hired her as a police officer.
Before she was appointed interim chief, she served as a commander overseeing the Special Services Bureau. Throughout her career, Tolber has held a variety of roles, including field training officer, patrol officer and supervisor, detective, investigations supervisor, crisis negotiator, training manager and professional standards.
Tolber earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology from the University of Redlands in 1998. She later obtained a master’s degree in criminology, law and society from the University of California, Irvine, in 2006 and another in applied criminology from the University of Cambridge in 2011.
What’s a key challenge you’ve faced as a woman in law enforcement, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I faced was starting a family. I was much further into my career when I had children. At the time, I was a sergeant responsible for the Investigation Services Bureau and actively involved in advancing evidence-based policing through the American Society of Evidence-Based Policing.
When I had my second child, I was just beginning my involvement in the National Institute of Justice’s Law Enforcement Advancing Data and Science (LEADS) program and was promoted to lieutenant about a year after my son arrived.
Finding balance as a mother, wife and policing professional was difficult. Fortunately, I had many friends, colleagues and mentors who helped me develop strategies to manage the challenges and ensure I was successful both at home and professionally.
What’s one crucial piece of advice you’d offer to women aiming for career advancement in law enforcement?
Take every opportunity that presents itself to learn and grow. Find good mentors to help coach and develop you. Know that challenges are opportunities and that there is always a solution that will allow you to achieve your goals.
The solutions will likely not be easy, but they will be worth it. That’s more than one piece of advice!
How has networking influenced your career, and what quick tip can you offer for effective networking?
Networking has been crucial in my career. By meeting and working with others, it has opened many doors for me — and I work to open doors for others in return.
To be an effective networker, take every opportunity available to meet new people — classes, training, projects, investigations, etc. Be sure to follow up with the folks you meet and build relationships.
Could you provide a tip for balancing higher education with career and personal commitments in law enforcement?
Be a good time manager. It’s not an easy feat. You simply must be organized and committed to completing your goals.
What’s your top suggestion for women preparing for leadership roles or promotional exams in law enforcement?
Take some time to reflect honestly on your career. Identify your strengths and weaknesses and begin to work on weaknesses. If you need further education, start your path to education. If you need to rotate to get a different experience and be well-rounded, ask to rotate. If you don’t have a mentor, get one.
Ensure you are taking the steps that will set you up for success. Also, take advantage of opportunities to mentor others. Not only is that expected of leaders, but it also helps you to solidify what you know and continue to learn.
What’s one change needed to better support women’s advancement in law enforcement over the next decade?
Agencies must identify policies and practices for how they create and maintain structural inequalities. Men who are devoted to their families likely have difficulty with work/life balance as much as women.
It is assumed to be a female problem because it is assumed that women must put family before work and be primarily available for their family’s needs. Exploring opportunities for part-time work, flexible schedules, childcare subsidies and the like will be beneficial to all employees while also assisting women.
Leadership lightning round
📖 What is a leadership book, podcast or seminar you’ve found invaluable?
“Extraordinary Outcomes” by Iris Firstenberg and Moshe Rubinstein
The Reducing Crime podcast by Jerry Ratcliffe
📅 How do you organize your day and stay on schedule?
I use both a hard copy planner and my Outlook calendar. I review my calendar nightly to prepare for the day ahead and work to stay on schedule. However, in this profession, you learn to be flexible and have a high tolerance for ambiguity. Plans can change quickly, and you need to adjust accordingly.
🗣️ What is one way that leaders can show they care about their people?
Listen to your people. Take time to interact with your team and truly hear what they have to say.
🌿 At the end of the workday, how do you recharge?
Daily, I spend time reading, listening to podcasts, or talking with my good friend on my way home.
Weekly, I recharge by doing fun activities with my family and riding my horse.
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