Today's guest is a powerful example of perseverance, service, and breaking barriers. Originally from Nicaragua, Katherine Montenegro moved to the U.S. at 14 without knowing any English. Determined to succeed, she found her passion for service through JROTC and her local police Explorer program in high school. At 18, she took her commitment even further, enlisting in the U.S. Army as an all-wheeled mechanic with the 101st Airborne.
After her military service, Katherine returned to Miami and encountered obstacles entering the mechanic field.
Undeterred, she used her Gl Bill to attend the police academy, beginning a 10-year career with the Hialeah Police Department. Over the years, she has served in specialized units like CRT, Burglary, and Homicide, worked as a Spanish-language PIO, and mentored young aspiring officers through the Explorer program. Now a sergeant on patrol, she is ranked #2 for promotion to lieutenant, all while navigating the challenges of leadership and single motherhood.
In this episode, we dive into Katherine's inspiring journey, her experiences as a woman in law enforcement, and how she continues to pave the way for future generations.