RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia State Police has expanded its "Pathway to Trooper" program, designed for individuals who are interested in becoming a trooper but are too young to apply. According to state police, the "Pathway to Trooper" program gives those ages 18 through 21-years-old the opportunity to explore career paths at Virginia State Police and reserve a spot in the Trooper Basic Session Academy. VSP said that, under the expanded program, young adults can join state police and gain credible experience as an Emergency Dispatcher, work in strategic planning, assist in the Safety Division, work in equipment repair, assist the Sex Offender Compliance Unit, work in Information Security or assist in the Virginia Fusion Center or Aviation Division. “We are always looking at ways to hire highly qualified applicants into the Department,” said Lt. Colonel Matt Hanley, interim Virginia State Police superintendent. “Pathway to Trooper allows young adults who have a goal of becoming a Virginia State Trooper to get their foot in the door early. We're very excited to offer this unique and worthwhile employment opportunity to Virginia's youth!" The first phase of "Pathway to Trooper" has already hired 10 people as Emergency Dispatchers, according to VSP. Those who choose this route can be eligible to receive a bonus of $5,000 and are provided the opportunity to earn an associate's degree in administration of justice by the time they graduate from VSP Academy. The positions are full-time and are salaried with state benefits. They also provide paid vacation leave. When a participant is accepted into the VSP Academy, they will become eligible for a 10% salary increase after completion of training and a retention bonus of $5,000 after completing basic training in the Academy. For more information about the VSP's "Pathway to Trooper" program, click here.