By Police1 Staff

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — After 80 years, the New Mexico State Police Motorcycle Division finally has a female officer, KOB 4 reported.

Officer Vanessa Martinez is the first female to pass all requirements, meet all qualifications and successfully complete obstacles to become a motorcycle officer.

“I hope I can continue to be motivational or inspirational to girls,” Martinez told KOB 4. “I love it when they come up to me and they are just so excited to see me on a motorcycle…It's an amazing feeling.”

Martinez started with the team over summer. The division is primarily responsible for traffic patrol, but also helps with presidential motorcades and funeral processions.