At 37, a Stratford Man's New Police Career Begins

After two years in sales at Allied Building Products, Kyle Siljamaki (pronounced "Silyamaki") is using his people skills for the police force.

Siljamaki, 37, of Stratford, was sworn in Tuesday night at . On Friday, he'll join two more officers who have already started the 22-week Police Academy in Meriden.

"I'm coming out of a sales position," Siljamaki said. "I'm looking forward to the academy."

To get into the academy, Siljamaki took a battery of privately-run tests, from physical agility to a psychological examination. Police estimated about 50 people took the tests.

Police Chief Thomas Kiely praised Siljamaki for his service.

"This is a grueling process. It's a very trying job," he said. "It's trying on the family too. There's a lot of responsibility placed on you in this job."

"We take a lot of pride in this and we want you to take pride," Kiely added. "You're going to meet people at their worst time. Everyone has bad luck and we try to do the best we can with it."

One step in the process was an interview with the police commission. Chairman Jack Testani said the commission was impressed.

"I think he's got an incredible background," he said. "You impressed all of us, you certainly impressed me."

"You'll represent Trumbull is a way we can all be proud," Testani said.

Before administering the oath to Siljamaki, First Selectman Tim Herbst said he was proud of the police force. Between storms and earthquakes, "I've spent more time in the Emergency Operations Center than any of my predecessors."

His wife, daughter, parents, a neice and nephew and friends and other relatives watched. His mother, Dawn Siljamaki, said "He's the first and we're proud of him."

Police officials said Michael Edwards and Matthew Perkowski could finish the Police Academy by March. Once they pass that, they will ride with current officers for their field training.

Police Commission Vice Chairwoman Anna Henry said there is one more position open in the department. When it is filled, there will be 75 officers. A test is being arranged, she said.

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