Clark State College is answering the call to strengthen public safety by launching a 9-1-1 Communications Dispatch Academy this fall. The six-week, hands-on training program will prepare individuals to step into one of the most vital roles in emergency response: the 9-1-1 communications operator.
Developed in partnership with the City of Xenia, the Academy was created in direct response to a regional shortage of trained dispatchers.
“9-1-1 operators are the first point of contact in a crisis and they play a critical role in saving lives,” said Erin Neely, Clark State assistant director of workforce. “Clark State is proud to lead the way in developing workforce programs that directly address community needs. This academy ensures individuals who complete the program are fully prepared to step into their role and ready to serve with skill, confidence and professionalism.”"
Participants will also be eligible for dispatch jobs that could pay between $25-$35 an hour, more than twice Ohio’s minimum wage, according to Neely.
Tricia Balonier, 9-1-1 communications director for the Xenia Greene Central Communications Center, said the partnership with Clark State brings critical visibility and support to the profession.
“This class is important because many are unaware of the 9-1-1 Dispatch Communications career path available in their local communities,” Balonier said. “As the true ‘first’ first responders, communications operators play a critical role in assisting callers during their most urgent and often life-threatening moments. Providing specialized training and foundational knowledge will help prepare students for this vital role and supports communications centers in identifying and developing current or potential future employees.”
Balonier added that the academy will also help ease the burden on communications training officers, who often work significant overtime due to staffing shortages.
“9-1-1 communications operators are vital in getting information from callers and in turn, getting the appropriate help to those in need as quickly as possible,” she said. “As they do this, they often keep callers on the phone to ensure their safety until law enforcement, fire or EMS personnel can get to the scene. Additionally, they are often juggling multiple calls and tasks simultaneously. There is a new reality when it comes to employing people in the public safety field and it is important to get the right people the right training so that they feel equipped to handle the demands of the job, make critical decisions under pressure, and provide effective, compassionate service to the communities they serve. We are grateful for the partnership with Clark State and the opportunity to bring awareness to this often overlooked or unknown career field.”
Participants in the academy will train in industry-standard protocols, de-escalation techniques, and legal and ethical responsibilities while gaining practical experience with essential technologies including CAD systems, radio operations and NG911 platforms. The program also features realistic simulations that mimic public safety answering point environments.
Upon program completion, participants will be prepared for employment in local, regional and national 9-1-1 centers, helping ensure communities have the emergency communication professionals they rely on every day.
The 9-1-1 Communication Dispatch Academy will run Oct. 27 through Dec. 10 at the Clark State Xenia Campus, 334 Progress Drive, Suite 200. Classes will be held Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants must be at least 18-years-old with a high school diploma or GED. The program cost is $2,000. No experience is necessary.
Seats are limited. To enroll, visit go.clarkstate.edu/workforce911 before Oct. 13.
For more information, contact Neely at workforce@clarkstate.edu or 937-328-6146.