Is the CPE Program for You?
Don't Just Take Our Word for It ...

Here's what students in the inaugural class of the association’s new Certified Public-Safety Executive (CPE) Program had to say during APCO 2016 in Orlando where they met to talk about their experience in the program thus far.

Program Design

I’ve been very impressed with the depth of knowledge that the books are giving, as well as the discussions that happen with the people that are in the course. If you’re committed to APCO and committed to 9-1-1, this is a program for you.”
Bill Duggan, RPL


“I’m really looking forward to the face-to-face meeting in Daytona Beach ... I think we’ll make some lifelong contacts.”
Kimberly Burdick, RPL

Continuing Leadership Development

Current participants agree that the CPE Program is the natural progression after becoming an RPL.

CPE takes it to the next level.”
Robert Bloom, RPL


RPL was created to train people in supervisory skills. CPE takes them to the next level.”
Robin Tieman, RPL

Discussions and Camaraderie

According to the CPE candidates, the online group discussions have been invaluable.

We’ve talked about everything from general basic communications and how to get it right to the public sector/private sector relationship and how to leverage that to our benefit.”
Charles Vitale, RPL

We’ve been a tight-knit group from the first week. It’s amazing. The learning… the experiences from the other people…. I can use those experiences as I move on.”
Renee Gordon, RPL

Financial Support

APCO scholarships help participants take advantage of the CPE opportunity.

I assumed that I would have to pay at least some of the cost out of my own pocket; it would be difficult to find that amount of money in my agency's budget. However, I applied for an APCO Scholarship, and was fortunate enough to receive an award that helped cover a significant amount of the tuition for the course. APCO has been an integral part of my professional success and personal development. The scholarship program has allowed me to obtain my RPL certification, and given me the chance to be a part of the inaugural CPE course.
Angela Bowen, RPL

Being able to use APCO scholarship money towards the CPE program put it within reach financially. Without the scholarship, I would have missed out on this amazing learning opportunity!"
Christina Dravis, RPL

Is It For Me?

CPE Program participants in attendance at the conference urged others to apply.

I told them to definitely take that step because it will enhance what they’ve already learned.”
Sheri Hokamp, RPL

An applicant must:
  • Possess an associate’s degree or higher OR
  • Be a graduate of APCO’s Registered Public-Safety Leader (RPL) Program OR
  • Have a high-school diploma AND a minimum of 10 years’ experience in public safety communications at the supervisor, manager or director level.




For more information, visit www.apcointl.org/cpe or contact us at [email protected] or (386) 322-2500.