Sgt. Shane Hauff poses in front of the sign for the Michigan State Police Negaunee Post. Sgt. Hauff was recently promoted. (Photo courtesy of the Michigan State Police)

Marquette County — The Michigan State Police (MSP) Negaunee Post is pleased to announce the recent promotion of Sgt. Shane Hauff. Sgt. Hauff grew up in Atlanta, Michigan, a small-town east of Gaylord, where football quickly became a central part of his life as a young man. He played throughout middle and high school, continued at Northern Michigan University (NMU), and even competed in a semi-professional league, playing for the Michigan Gators in the Detroit area.

After attending NMU for Construction Management, Sgt. Hauff worked in the construction industry from 2007 to 2017 in both Michigan and Maryland. He and his wife moved to Maryland after she graduated from NMU and accepted a teaching job, but they returned to Michigan in 2014.

Upon returning to Michigan in 2014, he used his experience across all levels of the construction industry to start his own business in the greater Grand Rapids area. Though he found success in the construction industry and small business ownership, he couldn’t shake the urge to pursue a new challenge.

Sgt. Hauff’s experience in organized sports helped him develop key character traits such as teamwork, discipline, a strong work ethic, and resilience. Sgt. Hauff found himself drawn to public service, where these traits could be used to help others.

Sgt Hauff originally had a strong interest in the military, especially the Navy SEALs. He began the enlistment process and training while working full time. During this time, a MSP trooper and close friend introduced the idea of joining the MSP. Recognizing that MSP fit well with his goals, experience, and personality, he made the decision to pursue becoming a trooper instead of enlisting in the Navy. He closed his business to join the MSP and attended the 133rd Trooper Recruit School.

Following graduation from Trooper Recruit School, he was assigned to the MSP Negaunee Post. After approximately two years working as a trooper at the post, he was selected to join the MSP Eighth District Traffic Safety Team (TST) where he gained additional experience with criminal drug interdiction, enforcement of traffic laws, and more. Sgt. Hauff spent approximately six years on TST prior to his promotion to sergeant at the Negaunee Post.

“I’m happy to return to the Negaunee Post and apply my experience to support the growth of both post and district personnel, so we can continue improving how we serve the public,” said Sgt. Hauff. “I will continue to grow in my new role and will be a reliable resource as a leader and sounding board for the personnel I work with.”

With football season just around the corner, Sgt. Hauff also had a message for young athletes and those considering a career change.

“As football season starts soon across the state, I want to share how the qualities I learned playing football such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience have helped me in my career with the Michigan State Police. The lessons from the game go far beyond the field. If you work hard and stay committed, those same qualities can open doors and lead you to opportunities where you can make a real difference. I hope my journey inspires you to embrace these qualities and pursue your own goals.”

Sgt. Hauff’s story shows that there is no single path to becoming a Michigan State Police Trooper. Whether you are a small business owner, a former or current athlete, or working in a completely different field, the MSP offers a meaningful and rewarding opportunity to serve your community with purpose.

Learn more about Michigan State Police career opportunities at michigan.gov/mspjobs.