If you’re a 911 professional, you’ve probably heard the alphabet soup: APCO. NENA. ETC. But what do all of these organizations actually do—and why should you care?

In Episode 4, we’re taking a brief dive into some of the organizations every 911 professional should know, while also highlighting newer and emerging organizations you may be less familiar with.

These organizations play a major role in shaping the future of 911 through education, training, advocacy, standards, networking, technology, and professional development.

Whether you’re brand new to the profession or you’ve been in the communications center for years, investing in yourself and getting connected to the larger 911 community can help propel your career forward.

So let’s decode the alphabet, expand your professional network, and talk about the organizations that are helping shape where 911 goes next.