FBI Milwaukee looking to hire more female special agents

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Ever wonder if you have what it takes to be a special agent? 

Well, now is your chance to find out. In a push to diversify, Milwaukee's Federal Bureau of Investigation office is looking to hire more women.

Law enforcement has made strides in diversifying over the years, but it's still largely a male dominated profession.

Women make up about 20 percent of special agents in the FBI, according to Special Agent In Charge Michael Hensle. The agency is looking to grow that number, wanting to better reflect the county it serves.

"That's obviously 50 percent men and women, and having both men and women on our workforce provides different dynamics, depending on the violation and what we do to accomplish our mission," Hensle said.

Hensle told CBS 58 that women have the same opportunities as men in the FBI, with potential to climb the ladder and hold executive positions.

"I think that's an important piece of what the FBI stands for and it's something that I think the American people deserve," Hensle said.

Supervisory Special Agent Amanda Jknutson can attest that the job can be very fulfilling.

"I'm one of those agents who always wanted to be a special agent," Jknutson said. "I do have a drive for service. I really had a passion for justice, and I was always driven to law enforcement."

Jknutson said they're looking for women from all backgrounds to translate their skills and interests into areas like STEM, education, psychology and linguistics.

Everything you need to know to be a special agent will be taught on the job.

The FBI Milwaukee office is hosting a female special agent recruitment event on May 26 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Attendees must be a U.S. citizen between 23 and 36 years old with a four-year degree from an accredited university and at least two years of professional work experience. 

People who are interested in attending need to reach out to: [email protected].