INUVIK - The RCMP is looking for some new officers to add to its ranks.

Const. Kelly Willis, Yellowknife RCMP recruiting officer, was in Inuvik and Fort McPherson recently to hold information sessions for people who may be interested in joining up.

Const. Kelly Willis of the Yellowknife RCMP recruiting division was in Inuvik and Fort McPherson last week for meet and greets with the public to attract more recruits. Willis said that a job with the RCMP is rewarding and fulfilling. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

"We're looking to get more applicants through the process of becoming RCMP officers," she said.

"I'm in town to explain what the process is like and what to expect," said Willis.

She said that over the next five years, the RCMP plans to hire 10,000 applicants from all over Canada.

"I'm always looking for someone who could be a good RCMP officer," she said.

"I'll approach people, talk with them about their options and what they want."

Willis also spent some time meeting with people in town who are in leadership positions.

"I travel and meet with role models in town, people who know others," she said.

The first step in applying to the RCMP is to fill out an application to take the aptitude exam. To qualify, applicants need to have a high school diploma and be over the age of 18. They also need a driver's licence and fluency in either English or French.

Willis has been with the RCMP for 10 years.

"I spent my first five years in B.C., then moved to Ontario for another four years," she said.

Last August Willis moved to Yellowknife, and began working for the recruitment division in May 2007.

Willis said that people join the RCMP for many reasons.

"Personally, I was looking for adventure," she said.

"I wanted the ability to work anywhere in Canada."

And Willis said that even though the job can be challenging, it's worth it.

"I knew from the start that I would never be bored with this job," she said.

Now she is back in Yellowknife, planning her next battery of community visits.

"I plan on travelling to a community every few months," said Willis.