LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – It takes dedication, grit, and a heart of service to go into law enforcement. Where that comes from is different for everyone. For one family, though, it might just be in the blood.
“I always wanted to be a trooper, always wanted to protect the community. When I was in high school, I looked up to the troopers in my local community and that’s kind of what pushed me into applying,” Sergeant Michael Mickley said.
Sgt. Mickley first joined DPS in 2007. His wife, Christina, then applied two years later.
They met while in high school and knew each other ahead of their time with DPS, but say her decision to apply wasn’t based on Michael.
“I like people, I’m a people person, and working for the drivers license division you see all sorts of people. I like to help,” Christina Mickley said.
Little did Christina and Michael know, nearly 20 years after they joined DPS, their son would, too.
Dylan Mickley joined DPS in 2025 after working as a firefighter and EMT.
“I think you never know how you’re going to feel until you start doing it. I was kind of weary when I started the academy because it isn’t easy, it’s hard. You’re away from your family in Austin for 30 weeks,” Dylan Mickley said. “The second you get on the road and you start interacting with the community and you have people start looking up to you, you see a real difference in the community that you serve.”
Christina said it isn’t easy having both her husband and her son out protecting and serving, though.
“I’ve grown to be okay with Michael going, it’s something I’ve adapted to,” Christina said. “It’s a little harder for me with Dylan just because he’s our son.”
Michael agreed, but said he’s proud of the path Dylan is choosing.
“At first there were a little bit of nerves, but as he went through the process and ultimately got hired and went to recruit school it changed into a very proud dad moment,” Michael said.
Though both parents are part of DPS, Dylan said he didn’t see his service as an obligation. He said it’s a value that runs through their DNA.
“The biggest thing, and it’s the motto of our department, is service,” Dylan said. “Our entire family, and not just our immediate family, has been part of service in one way or another. Being the new generation has been very cool.”
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