A new 911 telecommunicators program developed by the N.C. 911 Board and Richmond Community College was launched in August. More than 40 students are enrolled in the virtual program, which is the first of its kind in the nation.
The program offers an advanced 911 telecommunications curriculum for high school graduates and those seeking a new career, as well as skills enhancements for current 911 professionals. Students can earn a certificate, diploma and associate degree.
The program will help meet the need for 911 telecommunicators amid statewide staffing shortages.
“Thank you to Richmond Community College for its partnership in making this program a reality so quickly,” said Jim Weaver, NCDIT secretary and chair of the N.C. 911 Board. "We’re excited that North Carolina has this unique training to support our first responders and build a talent pipeline for such a critical role.”
The N.C. 911 Board expressed an interest in developing professional development opportunities for 911 telecommunicators, and Richmond Community College collaborated with the board to create the program within three months in the fall of 2022.