Dallas FBI Agent Says Advanced Degree Opens Door To New Opportunities
Since the age of 14, Kevin Kolbye knew he wanted to go into law enforcement. With his father being a CPA, Kolbye felt accounting would be a good field to study. He graduated with his bachelor's degree in accounting and went to work for Coopers & Lybrand. Doing analytical paperwork in an office cubical wasn't a good fit for Kolbye. He enjoyed the outdoors and wanted to be more active. His roommate in college became a Dallas Police officer and Kolbye went on a ride-along and was hooked. Kolbye sat for the entrance exam and was accepted into the Police Academy. Kolbye started as a Dallas patrol officer and quickly became a Special Weapons and Tactical (SWAT) Officer.
Kolbye's analytical mind served him well. He took the FBI exam and worked as a special agent. He worked as an undercover agent and traveled around the world. He rose through the ranks and worked criminal, counter intelligence, counter-terrorism and cyber crimes.
Kolbye always wanted to return home to Dallas and do police work that made a difference in local communities. State and local law enforcement agencies are now requiring advanced degrees in their higher management positions. Kolbye decided to earn his master's in criminal justice from Tarleton State University.
"Even though I have 30+ years in law enforcement, returning to school has challenged me and helped develop my leadership skills. In law enforcement, we focus on collecting the facts of a potential crime that leads us in our investigations. The master's program has taught me to look at more than just the crime itself; but analyze and value why the crime is being committed, who is committing the crime, and in preventing further crimes - how we can take the opportunity away from those that are committing the crime. Additionally, I think the education at Tarleton State University has given me a perspective that law enforcement is one part of the solution. We have to engage and be involved with the citizens that we serve and earn their trust by displaying honor and dignity when upholding the Constitution," said Kolbye.
"I wish I had started the master's program 15 years ago. I think it has enhanced my leadership ability and my critical thinking," said Kolbye.
Because of his educational pursuit, Kolbye has just been named the new assistant chief to the Arlington Police Department.
Robin D. Everson is a native Chicagoan who resides in Dallas, Texas. Her appreciation for art, food, wine, people and places has helped her become a well-respected journalist. A life-long lover of education, Robin seeks to learn and enlighten others about culture. You can find her work at Examiner.com
