Vantaggi
The agency excels in its mission to protect the citizens of Indiana! The Sworn officers are among the finest people I have met in my career -- real class acts that was a pleasure to serve! Being part of a larger mission is a very gratifying part of the job and makes up for the short-comings of the salary and some of the other less than desirable elements of working there. Within the scope of assigned projects, you have a high amount of latitude in the manner in which you make the implementation. For good work, the recognition is very swift and positive. In this respect a very rewarding experience. Very little micro-management! You will be exposed to a very wide array of technology and information. You will get an understanding of how the law enforcement community operates and develop an appreciation (if one doesn't already exist) for their place in society.
Svantaggi
Often things are done for political expedience, rather than technical merit. You have to fanatically guard every word you say, lest it be taken out of context. It is a very politically correct environment. Anything that slightly smacks of criticism or negativity is quashed. Here needs to be a line drawn between constructive and destructive criticism -- certainly nobody likes sour grapes, but when something is not correct, there needs to be courage to take it on. What was presented as para-military was often extreme military. Can be overwhelming if you have had no previous military experience. Civilian employees sometimes try to be more gung-ho than the sworn officers.