Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
At 40-years-old, Sandra Gutierrez is living proof that it’s never too late to chase your calling. As the sole female cadet in her cohort at the South Texas College Police Academy at the Mid-Valley Campus, she’s breaking barriers, challenging expectations and redefining what it means to serve her community.
Gutierrez’s journey into law enforcement began over a decade ago when she worked in retail and regularly collaborated with local police to prevent theft and crime. That early exposure planted a seed that would grow over the years.
“Working alongside officers seemed fun, and the sense of closure after solving a case was something I found exciting compared to my day-to-day job at the time,” Gutierrez said.
Though she had considered joining the Texas State Guard or serving in a volunteer capacity, it wasn’t until three years ago after seeing a social media ad for the STC Police Academy that her passion was reignited and her path became clear.
Now, Gutierrez stands as the only woman in her class, determined to succeed and lead in a field traditionally dominated by men.
According to the National Institute of Policing, it was reported that in 2024 only 12% of police officers are women.
“Yes, it’s a male-dominated field, but someone has to step up, and I’m up for the job,” she said.
Her journey hasn’t been easy, but Gutierrez credits her perseverance to the unwavering support of her family—especially her three children, older sister and father—as well as guidance from mentors including pastors and both active and retired law enforcement officers. She also draws inspiration from her instructors whose expertise and encouragement continue to build her confidence.
“It hasn’t been easy, especially with kids at home,” she said. “But I’ve learned that I can and I am able. I don’t know why I ever doubted myself.”
Gutierrez said mastering and applying penal codes has proven to be one of the toughest parts of her training, but she approaches each day with determination and optimism.
“I don’t feel pressure to prove myself. I just want to be better than yesterday,” she said. “I stay motivated by practicing what I’ve learned and knowing that everything will come together.”
Before beginning the Police Academy, Gutierrez graduated from STC in May 2024 with an associate degree in Secondary Education and plans on continuing her education to get a Bachelor’s of Arts in Social Studies Composite with the goal of earning a teaching certificate.
Her long-term vision includes teaching high school law enforcement or social studies, which merges her love of structure, service and education.
To women considering the same path, Gutierrez has a powerful message.
“My advice is simple: Don’t let fear of failure hold you back,” she said. “If you love helping others and aren’t afraid to step up, if serving your community and upholding the law speaks to you—then now is your time. If you have a dream or even just a spark of curiosity, be brave enough to chase it. Don’t settle and never give up on yourself.”
For more information on the STC Police Academy, visit: https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/law-enforcement/academy.html.
Information source; STC
