The deadline for call for speakers proposal submissions for APCO 2025 is next Wednesday, December 18. There is still time to submit your proposal! We are seeking thought leaders and industry experts who have a strong grasp of emerging issues, innovations and technology in the emergency communications industry. Speak on one of our eleven professional development tracks and receive a complimentary full conference registration!
Submit your proposal
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Join us for the second 9-1-1 Wellness Summit March 2-3 in Portland, Oregon. This year's Wellness Summit is one day longer to provide even more tools and insights to support your personal and professional mental, physical and emotional health. Our 2025 program features sessions such as:
- Getting Unstuck From Trauma When Stuck at the Consoles
- FIT for the Call
- Sleep Wellness
- Mindfulness and Meditation
- Build, Empower and Inspire Your Peer Support Team
Those are just examples of some of our sessions. Check out our full program to learn about all of our sessions, speakers and activities.
Register
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On December 9, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued a Public Notice announcing that all 4.9 GHz public safety licensees must update their granular licensing data in the Universal Licensing System (ULS) by June 9, 2025. This requirement follows FCC action to adopt a framework in which a to-be-selected band manager will hold a nationwide overlay license and enter into a sharing agreement with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) to access the band in areas unused by incumbent operations. The FCC outlined the following process for licensees to provide details on their current operations and use of the band:
- Review current operations – Licensees must ensure that all active operations under existing PA licenses are correctly documented and categorize operations into two new license types: PB (base/mobile, mobile-only or temporary fixed operations) or PF (fixed point-to-point or point-to-multi-point operations).
- Submit granular licensing data – Starting December 9, licensees must use ULS to file detailed licensing data for new PB and PF licenses. For PB licenses, licensees must use schedule D and H forms to provide details, such as coordinates, antenna heights and areas of operation. For PF licenses, licensees must use schedule I forms to submit data on transmission/receiver antenna parameters, frequencies and path details. Licensees should also include a list of the relevant PA call signs in an attachment to the PB and PF service code request(s).
- Cancel PA licenses – Once licensees’ new PB and PF licenses are issued, licensees must cancel any existing PA licenses. After June 9, 2025, any remaining PA licenses will be cancelled automatically.
Incumbent public safety licensees in the 4.9 GHz band must follow this three-step process and provide the granular licensing data to remain authorized to operate in the band. Visit the APCO website for more information on the 4.9 GHz band.
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 Kirstie Brokaw is a dedicated public safety telecommunicator who has made a difference at Genesee County 9-1-1 for over seven years. Kirstie is a Certified Training Officer (CTO), LEIN TAC, and an active member of the public relations team.
As a CTO, Kirstie plays a vital role in training new telecommunicators. She is also passionate about supporting young professionals in the industry. “It’s always good to have a fresh perspective,” she says, “Newcomers often bring ideas we haven’t thought of yet.” Kirstie understands the challenges of balancing work and life in this career but is dedicated to helping others find their footing. When she is off the clock, Kirstie recharges by diving into a good book or enjoying the great outdoors. “As a trainer, I make sure new hires have all the tools they need to succeed,” she says.
Kirstie hopes to become a supervisor in the next five years, driven by her goal to build a career she’s proud of. She’s also actively involved in her center’s peer support team, a program she’s excited to see grow. “There’s a lot more focus on mental health now than when I started,” she notes.
Read more
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December 17 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. ET
Free for members; $59 for non-members | Worth 1 CDE
Sponsored by Revcord
This webinar will explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing emergency communications centers (ECCs) through automation and advanced data management. By the end of this webinar, you will understand how AI addresses the challenges of traditional call logging, gain insights into key AI features, learn about real-world applications through dealer and ECC manager testimonials and explore the future of AI in public safety. Join us in discovering practical applications and learn how AI can streamline call-logging tasks.
Register
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APCO IntelliComm® is a powerful, criteria-based platform that supports emergency communications in delivering faster, more accurate emergency responses for law enforcement, fire service and EMD. With its intuitive design and configurable features, the technology ensures your agency’s unique needs are met while improving workflows and decision-making. See how IntelliComm can elevate your emergency call handling with a personal demonstration.
Schedule a demo
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APCO’s Fundamentals of Tactical Dispatch course equips telecommunicators to excel in this critical role through hands-on scenarios and practical exercises. Topics include the telecommunicator’s role, pre-deployment training, radio communications and managing incidents requiring multi-agency coordination.
See upcoming dates
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NBC Bay Area
The mayor attributed the improvements to an overhaul of the city’s information technology infrastructure.
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Cayman Compass
A teen, who was resuscitated after a suicide attempt with CPR performed by her mother with guidance by a public safety telecommunicator, was among those cheering on the life-saving team.
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The Aspen Times
The ECC was honored for its ethic of service, savvy technology use and prioritizing the well-being of staff.
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Albuquerque Journal
The 7,200-square-foot center replaces a smaller ECC with one that has natural daylight, a large break room and desks with built-in lighting and individual heating and cooling, among other amenities.
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Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette
The merger comes in response to a state law mandating consolidations in Arkansas counties by the end of the year.
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The APCO Institute offers a wide range of courses available online, virtually and in-person to earn CDEs. Space is available to register for the following courses:
Interested in attending a course in person? There are several in-person courses scheduled throughout the nation.
View the 2025 training calendar
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