Welcome to Class!

As essential first responders and communicative lifelines of our community, understanding the geographical nuances of Waukesha County is crucial. We will provide knowledge that will enable you to collect accurate location information, ensure an appropriate dispatch response, and send help to the right location every time! 

You will become familiar with key geographical features of Waukesha County and by the end of this section in the classroom, you will be able to:

1. Identify Major Landmarks by recognizing and pinpointing hospitals, schools, parks, and other critical infrastructure.
2. Understand Geographical Zones after learning about various boundaries within Waukesha County and how they impact dispatch operations, responders, mutual aid, etc.
3. Navigate Key Routes and Community Layouts to help aid in quick and accurate responses for both our callers and responders.

We want to make sure you are provided with a comprehensive understanding of our CAD system ensuring that you have the skills and knowledge needed to operate these systems efficiently and effectively.  This will help to prepare you to handle real-life emergency dispatch situations with confidence, quickness, and proficiency.

We begin with an overview of CAD and how our program integrates with emergency response protocols. You will learn how to navigate our CAD interface, including entering and retrieving information and mapping.  You'll also be introduced to managing incidents from receiving, prioritizing, and dispatching emergency calls to ensure an accurate and timely response. 

9-1-1 technology encompasses a range of systems and tools designed to facilitate the efficient handling of emergency calls. These technologies have evolved significantly over the years, incorporating advanced features to improve the accuracy, speed, and effectiveness of emergency responses.

Understanding the specifics of each emergency service is incredibly important and crucial for effective coordination and response during emergencies.  It's our job to understand the unique roles and functions of each.  By the end of training, you'll have a solid grasp of the specific roles and responsibilities of police, fire, and EMS and the importance of interagency collaboration.

Participate in practical exercises that simulate real-world emergencies, allowing you to apply your knowledge in a controlled environment.

If you have already been hired, then you are probably familiar with our dispatch sit-ins.  These sit-ins during the hiring process as well as onboarding and classroom, provide dispatchers with a realistic understanding of our 9-1-1 environment.  It allows you to observe the high-paced, dynamic nature of the work we do, how we handle communication with our partners and manage critical information as well as provide you a chance to meet your WCC family.  You'll sit alongside a dispatcher as they perform the work of a trained telecommunication.  They'll answer calls, dispatch units, and coordinate with their team members when needed.  You'll be able to get acquainted with our technology and the systems we use. Throughout this observation, it is encouraged to ask questions and don't be afraid to ask a lot of them.  

We are here to ensure your transition into your new role as a telecommunicator is smooth and enjoyable. Throughout your training, you'll be able and encouraged to reach out with questions or for assistance. It doesn't have to be related to the job duties at hand either.  If you have questions about the schedule, or vacation, or are a subject matter expert in an area you may be challenged by, this team can either answer those questions or guide you in the right direction.

At the end of the classroom, we love to have our family and friends come visit our center and witness the amazing work we do.  We want to share your new career with your family and friends and celebrate not only you becoming a 9-1-1 telecommunicator but also thank those who support you on this journey.