The Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International is proud to announce final approval of APCO ANS 3.106.3-2026 Core Competencies and Minimum Training Standards for Public Safety Communications Quality Assurance Evaluators (QAE) on January 20 and APCO ANS 3.104.3-2026 Core Competencies and Minimum Training Standards for Public Safety Communications Training Coordinator on January 27.
February Only: $20 Discount on Select Course Dates
Through February 28, all 9-1-1 professionals an receive $20 off select dates for some of our most popular core courses.
This special discount promotion is only available during the month of February and on select course dates, so don’t miss your chance to save. Discounts will be reflected at checkout.
Nominations Are Open for ECC and Technology Leadership Awards
The APCO awards honor the everyday heroes in emergency communications, as well as ECCs that exemplify technological excellence. The deadline to submit your nomination is April 1. All award winners will be honored at APCO 2026, August 2-5, in San Antonio, Texas.
Upcoming Webinars
- The Role of Over the Top (OTT) Applications and Services in NG9-1-1
February 25, 2026 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET - Adding New Technology Without Adding Extra Burden: How AI Reduces Cognitive Load During 9-1-1 Call Taking
March 18, 2026 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET - Using Satellite Spectrum for Public Safety
March 25, 2026 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET
Free for members; $59 for non-members | Worth 1 CDE
APCO Scholarship Program Is Open
Are you an APCO member looking to advance your career with APCO Institute training but need financial assistance? APCO scholarships are available exclusively for APCO members and can be used for APCO Institute courses and leadership programs.
Key deadlines:
- RPL Scholarships: Applications due by March 1
- General Scholarships: Applications due by April 1
- CPE Scholarships: CLOSED
Being an APCO member has added immeasurable value to my professional and personal growth. As a member, you have access to top-notch resources, industry expertise and the opportunity to join a networking powerhouse.
Keeping You Up to Date
APCO is your source for public safety communications news that affects you, your job and your community.
APCO Seeks Comments on Candidate National Operational Standard Minimum Technical Requirements for Remote Support to Emergency Communications Centers (ECCs)
The remote support standard outlines the essential technical and operational requirements for personnel working from a remote location.
APCO Hosts Wellness & Workforce Summit
On February 18-19, 2026, APCO hosted the Wellness & Workforce Summit, an event that built on previous wellness and staffing summits to advance the conversation around workforce sustainability in public safety communications. Over 175 attendees gathered for two full days of education, emotional discussions, technology demonstrations and collaboration.
APCO International Announces Recipients of the 9-1-1 Impact Awards
APCO International announces the recipients of the 2026 9-1-1 Impact Awards, who will be honored during an awards reception in Washington, D.C. The 9-1-1 Impact Awards provide a unique opportunity to recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to public safety communications while celebrating the collective achievements of our community.
Agencies Receive APCO Agency Training Program Accreditation
Public safety agencies use the APCO International Agency Training Program Accreditation as a formal mechanism to ensure their training programs meet APCO American National Standards (ANS).
APCO CEO and Executive Director Mel Maier Testifies in Congress on FirstNet Reauthorization
On January 28, APCO CEO and Executive Director Mel Maier testified before the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation’s Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media at a hearing titled “On the Front Lines of Connectivity: Examining FirstNet’s Role in Public Safety.”




