Colonel Eric Olson, the 24th superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, has announced he will retire in February after more than 34 years of service.

Olson was appointed to the Patrol on July 1, 1990, as a member of the 63rd Recruit Class. Upon completing his training at the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy, he was assigned to Troop H where he held the ranks of trooper, corporal, and sergeant.

In 2004, Olson was promoted to lieutenant and assigned to Troop B Headquarters in Macon. In 2014, Olson was promoted to the rank of captain and designated commanding officer of Troop A, Lee’s Summit. In 2015, he transferred to the Division of Drug & Crime Control where he served as director. Olson was promoted to major in 2017, where he served as commander of the Criminal Investigation Bureau. Olson was promoted to lieutenant colonel March 9, 2017, and designated assistant superintendent of the Patrol. On September 1, 2018, he assumed the role of acting superintendent.

On March 5, 2019, Governor Michael L. Parson appointed Olson the 24th superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Olson’s retirement is effective February 1, 2025.