911 is calling. Will you answer?
May 8, 2023
The first, first responders don't fight fires, drive an ambulance or wear a badge. But they will be there to answer your call on one of your worst days.
We are talking about 911 dispatchers, also known professionally as public safety telecommunicators. These are people with a desire to serve and improve their communities using their own unique skills. Our police, fire, and medical responders rely on the people sitting in that chair waiting to answer the call and make a difference.
Dispatchers are on the front lines of an emergency when someone calls or texts 911 for help. While they are unseen, they are saving lives, right alongside those first responders on the scene.
They have skillsets and training that enable them to notice subtleties during a call that could mean the difference between life and death. It's a stressful job, but vital for helping Minnesotans through every emergency every day.
Despite the necessity of their job, there is a nationwide shortage of dispatchers. Minnesota is just one of many states in need of more public safety telecommunicators. That's why our Emergency Communications Networks (ECN) division is partnering with the Minnesota Sheriffs' Association to prioritize recruitment and retention efforts for 911 dispatchers statewide.
Minnesota dispatchers answered more than 2.85 million calls to 911 in 2022. They were there to answer those calls, but they need your help. If you have an interest in public safety, consider a career as a dispatcher.
We're looking for Minnesotans of every background who have an interest in serving their community at one of 103 state, tribal, county, municipal and non-traditional Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) or 911 dispatch centers. If you're searching for a calling, this could be the career for you.
We have launched our website, 911ItsYourCalling.com, to answer any of your questions and help you get started in your career as a dispatcher.
