Why should you choose this career pathway?

• Early Career Start: Begin serving your community at age 18.
• Professional Development: Receive specialized training in emergency services.
• Career Readiness: Build a competitive resume for law enforcement academy applications.
• Community Impact: Make a difference in public safety from day one.

Why should you start as a dispatcher?

• Gain real-world experience in public safety operations.
• Develop familiarity with law enforcement procedures, terminology, and emergency response protocols.
• Develop familiarity with Bedford County landmarks and coverage area.
• Build a network of professional contacts within the law enforcement community.

Duties:

• Answer emergency and non-emergency calls professionally and promptly.
• Gather critical information from callers and dispatch appropriate emergency services (police, fire, EMS).
• Stay calm under pressure while providing life-saving instructions when needed.
• Operate communication systems, including radios, computer-aided dispatch (CAD), and databases.

Skills Developed:

• Crisis management and decision-making
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Situational awareness and multitasking
• Knowledge of law enforcement protocols and procedures

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Strong communication and typing skills
• Ability to remain composed in high-stress environments
• Completion of a certified dispatcher training program

Phase 1: Entry-Level 911 Dispatcher (Ages 18-21)
Objective: Build foundational skills in emergency response and law enforcement support while gaining professional experience.
Key Responsibilities:
• Answer and manage emergency and non-emergency calls.
• Gather and relay accurate information to first responders.
• Provide pre-arrival instructions, including life-saving guidance.
• Operate radio, telephone, and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems.
Training and Certification:
• Emergency Medical Dispatch Certification (EMD)
• Emergency Fir Dispatch Certification (EFD)
• CPR and First Aid Certification
• Legal and Procedural Overview of Law Enforcement Support
• Criminal Warrants and Protective Orders Procedures
Skills Gained:
• Crisis management and decision-making
• Communication and active listening
• Situational awareness and multitasking
• Knowledge of law enforcement protocols and emergency response procedures
Step 2: Transition to Law Enforcement Officer (Age 21+)
Requirements:
• Be at least 21 years old
• U.S. citizenship and valid driver’s license
• Successfully pass law enforcement background check 
• Successful completion of law enforcement academy training

Phase 2: Transition to Law Enforcement Officer (Age 21+)
Objective: Use emergency dispatch experience as a foundation for becoming a sworn law enforcement officer.
Eligibility Criteria:
• Must be at least 21 years old.
• U.S. citizenship with a valid driver’s license.
• No disqualifying criminal record.
• Successful completion of required law enforcement academy training.
Key Steps:
1. Apply to the local law enforcement agency.
2. Pass written exams, physical fitness tests, and background checks.
3. Complete law enforcement academy training.
4. Undergo field training and probationary periods.
Career Advancement Opportunities:
• Patrol Officer
• Detective/Investigator
• Specialized Units (SWAT, K-9, Narcotics, etc.)
• Supervisory and Leadership Roles