1. Project P.R.O. What is it? Project 37 becomes Project PRO PRO P rofessional R ecognition O btainment The Project Goal is to create a professional certification program that will recognize those emergency communications personnel who meet a validated professional standard

2. P R O P rofessional R ecognition O btainment What is it? The Mission of the Certification Program is to establish a visible and valuable standard of quality that fosters the professional development of public safety communications personnel through recognition of knowledge, experience, training, and education

3. Project P.R.O. Why is it important? Emergency communications is a crucial part of public safety emergency services. Due to increased awareness, the public expects a high level of quality service from the individuals who operate 9-1-1 PSAPs and Public Safety Communications Centers. The APCO Long Range Strategic Plan recognizes the importance of professional development, and high standards through certification. Certification supports the APCO Mission.

4. Project P.R.O. What will it do? Certification will foster the professional development of personnel in public safety communications by challenging them to meet high standards of experience, education and training, and knowledge in their field.

5. Project P.R.O. What are the benefits? For the participant: the establishment of career credentials, formal acknowledgment of expertise, the promotion of continuing education and training, and promotion of professional self-esteem and recognition. For public safety agencies:creation of more credibility, encouragement of enhanced job performance, more knowledgeable employees, and increased protection from liability. For the public: higher professional standards for personnel involved in emergency communications professions.

6. Project P.R.O. What has been done? Needs Assessment Study Job Task/Skill Analysis w/Validation Program Handbook developed Eligibility criteria established Personal, Experience, Education/Training coursework Lifetime Learning Credits established Recertification criteria established Continuing Education Service to the profession

7. Project P.R.O. Project P.R.O. What certifications will be available? As currently proposed, certification standards will be available at the following levels: Basic Operations Advanced Operations Training Specialist Training Program Management First line Supervision Communications Center Management Certification is based on eligibility for a level, not the candidates job title or classification

8. Project P.R.O. What are the general eligibilities? Public Safety Communications Level 1 The Basic Operations standard requires a minimum of 2 years full time or 4000 hours part-time experience in public safety communications operation. To meet the standard it will be necessary to have a well-rounded, basic level of education and training in public safety communications subject matter.

9. Project P.R.O. What are the general eligibilities ? Public Safety Communications Level 2 The Advanced Operations certification standard requires a minimum of 4 years full-time or 6000 hours part-time experience in public safety communications operations. The successful candidate will have continued their training and education beyond the Basic Operations, in a variety of subject areas. Knowledge based testing will be developed.

10. Project P.R.O. What are the general eligibilities? First Line Communications Supervision A minimum of 5 years in public safety communications with 2 years experience in a shift supervision or lead operator role, or as a supervisor are required for the Supervision Certification. Experience in and knowledge of quality assurance, team building and first line supervision skills will be necessary.

11. Project P.R.O. What are the general eligibilities? Training Specialist Proposed as an addendum to the advanced operations level, this certification will target communications personnel who have at least 2 years experience training communications personnel as an “on-the- job” Training Officer or agency Instructor.

12. Project P.R.O. What are the general eligibilities? The Training Management certification targets personnel whose role includes overseeing public safety communications training program development, implementation and documentation, and “training the trainers”, or classroom instruction in advanced operations topics. A minimum of 2 years experience overseeing a training program will be required prior to certification at this level.

13. Project P.R.O. What are the general eligibilities? Eligibility for the Communications Center Management certification requires: 8 years full-time experience in public safety communications with 2 years in a managing role; OR 5 years experience in public safety communications with 2 years of supervisory experience and, either 2 years in management in any field, or a college degree in a related field. The successful candidate will have a strong knowledge of organizational and operational theory applied to public safety communications. A firm understanding of communications systems, as well as personnel management and fiscal management will be necessary.

14. Project P.R.O. How will certification be achieved? Candidates will submit documentation that experience, core training, additional training and education, and professional contributions meet the established standards of eligibility criteria at each level A knowledge based test will be required at some/all levels Criteria have been established to allow “Lifetime Learning” credits in lieu of some educational requirements

15. Project P.R.O. What is the current status? The program is still in development and will be implemented in stages An RFI has been issued for test development and delivery Funding sources are being investigated.

16. Project P.R.O. What else needs to be done? The Project’s current goals are: Evaluate available, affordable, and effective methods of assessment, test development and delivery Develop test items, validate testing materials Identify the amount and sources of funding to support the implementation of the program Continue to develop the program administration plan Compile marketing objectives and ideas Complete the program business plan Develop a detailed action plan and time line for implementation

17. Project P.R.O. The 2002-2003 Project Team Lynne Feller, Chair Rich Abrams Nancy Brady Willis Carter Tony Harrison Danielle Howe Randall Larson Nate McClure Joe Noce Liz Phillips Candice Solie APCO 2 nd VP Diana Borash APCO HQ Liason Woody Glover