COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The Columbus Police Department is participating in a major new initiative aimed at getting more women into law enforcement, both here and across the country.

The 30×30 initiative aims to increase representation in the department.

Single mother Aissha Broussard said she had to make a difficult decision 17 years ago: Should she join the Columbus Police Department? She wasn’t sure she was ready.

“17 years ago, I never even thought about becoming a police officer,” she said. “It wasn’t until someone said they were hiring that I applied and now here I am, 17 years later. I had just graduated from college and was working in a dorm. I was trying to find a new career path.”

Over the years, the number of women in the Columbus Police Department has slowly increased. Currently, the Columbus Police Department has about 270 female officers, which is 11% of the workforce.

The department is looking to improve those numbers by joining the 30×30 initiative, a statewide effort to increase the percentage of women in police recruiting classes to 30% by 2030.

Leaders in police departments across the country point out that the underrepresentation of women in the police force undermines public safety. The 30×30 initiative also aims to improve the work of officers in communities.

According to a study by the 30×30 initiative, female police officers use less and less excessive force, are mentioned in fewer complaints and court cases, and are perceived by society as more compassionate, especially in cases of sexual assault.

The Columbus Division of Police is led by Police Chief Elaine Bryant.

Broussard told ABC 6 that she sees opportunity for further growth within the women’s division.

“There are no limits to what you can do,” Broussard said.

She hopes this message will resonate with women considering a career in law enforcement.

On Wednesday morning, the Columbus Division of Police will host a recruitment event from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Good Cafe in Easton Commons. The cafe is located at 4400 Easton Commons, Suite 150.

The department calls on women who want to pursue a career in the police force.