Motivated by a passion for community service, Inspector Matthew Williams made a dramatic shift from his original career in finance to a new career in law enforcement. His dedication to serving others was evident from a young age and was further demonstrated by his volunteer work in Mexico and South Sudan. This commitment persisted when he joined the Michigan State Police (MSP), where he now aims to make a real difference in his home state. 

Insp. Williams exemplifies the highest standards of dedication and leadership within the MSP. Over a distinguished 16-year career, Insp. Williams has held diverse roles, ranging from trooper to assistant deputy director, highlighting his versatility and deep commitment to public safety. 

During his time as the commander of the Government Relations Section, Insp. Williams played a pivotal role in shaping public safety policy, negotiating budgets, and driving progress within the MSP. Insp. Williams demonstrated proactive mentorship and provided strong support to his team, highlighting his excellent leadership skills. Simultaneously, he pursued higher education, earning a Juris Doctor. 

Insp. Williams’s colleagues consistently praise his professionalism and mentorship, along with his skill for leading by example. For instance, when an error occurs on his team, he is known to step up to publicly accept responsibility while using the incidents as private mentoring opportunities. His ongoing support and engagement with current and former subordinates underscore his commitment to their growth and development. 

Insp.  Williams’s exceptional leadership is further evidenced by his graduation as valedictorian from law school, his completion of the FBI National Academy, and his pivotal role in securing a $2,000,000 annual professional development fund for MSP members. 

“Each new role is another opportunity to serve the people I work with and to create a safe and secure community for the citizens who look to us.”