The author notes that the reasons why jail professionalization has not taken place are rooted in traditionalism. The traditional orientation of jail training, organizational structure, jail administration, and line officers has impeded professionalization by encouraging regressive jailing. Additional obstructions to the process of professionalization are public perception, governmental relationship, and jail crowding. Currently, these interrelated obstacles counteract notions of professionalization through formal education. Some positive trends in jail work, however, have encouraged professionalization. Currently, the drift toward the use of jail standards, podular direct supervision jails, and new generation management has stimulated the process of professionalization. This article recommends that jail personnel and managers become proactive proponents of professionalization. If jail officers become their own professionals, they could define their own status. Similarly, college and university administrators are encouraged to support their community needs by actively facilitating jail professionalization. 22 references