ISP honors telecommunications operators

In 1991 Congress proclaimed the second week of April as National Public Safety Telecommunications Week to honor the dedicated men and women who serve as public safety telecommunications operators.

Indiana Governor Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. has proclaimed April 13-19 as "Telecommunication Operator's Week" across the state. Proclamations are provided by the Governor's Office as a service to Indiana residents with the goal of honoring and celebrating events or increasing awareness of noteworthy issues among citizens across Indiana.

For several years, the Indiana State Police has recognized the pivotal role played by its telecommunication operators who are commonly referred to as emergency dispatchers. They possess the technical skills to answer calls for emergency assistance, dispatching troopers to the site of an emergency. They also provide support to field personnel, general public, local police agencies, emergency medical services, national weather service, and other governmental agencies.

Telecommunication operators working from the Indiana State Police Putnamville District are responsible for dispatching troopers and motor carrier inspectors to calls for service in Morgan, Hendricks and Putnam Counties. They are required to remain composed in many different emergency situations and must have the ability to speak calmly and clearly. They are proficient in the many tools of their trade from telephones, computers, two-way radios, fax machines and they are also required to be certified in emergency medical dispatch. Indiana State Police telecommunication operators are also certified in entering information in the Indiana Data and Communications System (IDACS) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC).

Lieutenant George Schneider, Commander of the Putnamville District said, "These individuals work around the clock, all year to support our troopers and keep the public safe. Together they have over 40 years of combined experience serving the State of Indiana and its citizens".

Six telecommunication Operators are assigned to the Putnamville District:

* Supervisor Kim Erwin, 5 years of service, resides in Clay County. Erwin also worked for the Department Of Natural Resources as an Operator for over 16 years.

* Operator Kathy Cooper, 3 years of service, resides in Owen County.

* Operator Heather Evans, 1 year of service, resides in Clay County

* Operator Beverly Howell, 2 years of service, resides in Owen County.

* Operator Leesa Powell, 2 years of service, resides in Putnam County.

* Operator Becky Roach, 11 years of service, resides in Putnam County.

Anyone interested in a career as a telecommunication operator with the Indiana State Police are encouraged to contact their nearest Indiana State Police District or the State of Indiana Job Bank at www.IndianaStateJobs.org