Professional Development
Call for Speakers is OPEN. Closes December 11, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET
Education & Training at APCO 2025
APCO 2025's professional development offerings provide you with an educational experience unparalleled to any other industry-related event.
Through a very rigorous process, our sessions are selected from the best and brightest in our industry in various subject matters. APCO strives to provide you with an unparalleled educational experience. In doing so, we will help you become more knowledgeable in your field, more valuable to your agency and co-workers, and better equipped with the latest tools to keep our communities and the public safe.
Call for Speakers
APCO International invites thought leaders and industry experts in emergency communications to submit session ideas for APCO's Annual Conference & Expo taking place July 27-30, 2025, in Baltimore, MD.
Professional Development Tracks
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Communications Center Management Sessions will enable managers to make a significant impact on their employees and agency by focusing on key issues related to operating a communications center including mentoring, improving retention and innovative recruiting strategies. |
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Cybersecurity for Public Safety Communications Cybersecurity is an existing and rapidly evolving threat to ECCs and public safety communications networks. This track will cover multiple aspects of cybersecurity, such as training and cyber “etiquette;” available resources; and tips for preparing for, preventing, preventing, mitigating, and recovering from cyber threats and attacks. |
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Emergency Preparedness, Response & Situational Awareness The sessions within this track are designed to address the operational planning needed to prepare communication centers and first responders for an unexpected and expanding emergency event. Discussions include responses to major incidents, drawing from real-life scenarios and applicable operational strategies. |
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Frontline Telecommunicator These sessions will focus on subjects that are relevant to Frontline Telecommunicators including procedures related to answering 9-1-1 calls, dispatching public safety units. |
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Leadership Development The sessions within this track will focus on developing leadership skills that every successful person needs to possess, both operationally and technically. Participants will learn the tools and techniques to enhance their personal performance and become a great leader. |
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NG9-1-1 and Emerging Technologies This track explores the transformative impact of next-generation technologies on 9-1-1 operations and emergency response. Sessions will delve into how advancements such as text to 9-1-1, drones, artificial intelligence (AI), and body-worn cameras are revolutionizing the field, enhancing situational awareness, and improving response efficiency. Participants will gain insights into integrating these cutting-edge tools with NG9-1-1 systems to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. |
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Radio and Wireless Communications Technologies This track is dedicated to current and future trends in land mobile radio, wireless and broadband networks and devices, as well as spectrum management and licensing issues. |
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Wellness in the Emergency Communications Center These sessions focus on enhancing overall wellness within the Emergency Communication Center environment by addressing key aspects of health and well-being. Explore practical strategies for integrating proper nutrition, mental health support, and overall well-being into the demanding ECC setting. Learn how to implement programs that promote a balanced diet, effective stress management techniques, and mental health resources, all aimed at fostering a healthier, more resilient workforce. |
New Tracks for APCO 2025!
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Training Essentials These sessions are designed to provide a comprehensive toolkit of training techniques and ideas. Explore innovative training strategies, integrate new technologies, and discover cost-effective approaches to training on a budget. Whether you’re focused on training dispatchers, call receivers, or preparing the next generation of professionals, these sessions offer detailed, actionable insights to refine training methods and ensure staff are well-prepared and engaged in any scenario. |
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Federal Partners Hear from important partners from APCO to include FirstNet, the FCC and NTIA as well as APCO’s advocacy team. |
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Mastering Media & Public Engagement This track focuses on key areas such as social media management, public education, and media communication. It will cover how to create and manage social media accounts, educate the public about 911 services, and develop effective skills as a Public Information Officer, including media relations. |
"I have found that many of my most popular classes are born from conversations at APCO, and I remain grateful for the people who share their stories with me, so I can in turn serve them better.
Submit Your Presentation Proposal
Share your knowledge and experiences in a one-hour presentation as part of the APCO 2025 professional development program. Call for Speakers closes December 11, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Speaker Benefits
As a professional development session Main Presenter or Co-Presenter, you'll receive one complimentary full conference registration which includes the following:
- Entrance into all professional development tracks Sunday through Wednesday
- Entrance into the Exhibit Hall Monday and Tuesday
- Entrance into the Block Party
Your speaker registration does not include entrance to special events. Tickets can be purchased online when registration opens in April 2025.
APCO International is pleased to provide you with the above benefits; however, we are unable to offer compensation or cover any travel/hotel expenses for presenters.