Alexandria, VA – Today the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International announced the introduction of the Institute’s newest course for emergency communications center (ECC) professionals – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in the ECC. The first course will be held August 31 – September 1, onsite at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC) in Forsyth, Ga.
The DEI course was developed with information gathered from an APCO membership survey conducted late in 2020, which identified issues affecting diversity, equity and inclusion in the ECC. The course curriculum includes discussions on experiences and viewpoints to better understand how perceptions – both individual and institutional – can affect how employees interact with each other in the workplace. The course will also identify interventions to counter biases, microaggressions and other negative workplace behaviors. Best practices are also addressed to result in healthier and more inclusive organizations with fully engaged employees.
“Through the APCO diversity survey, our members indicated there is a great need for a course like this,” says APCO Executive Director and CEO Derek Poarch. “Although there are many resources available to address the issues of diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, APCO’s DEI course is the only one available that explores these complex issues as they exist within emergency communication centers. We’re pleased to be able to offer this unique opportunity to individuals in our profession.”
Attendees benefiting from attending this course include industry directors, managers, supervisors, communications training officers, training coordinators and those interested in fostering high-performing inclusive ECCs. Class enrollment is limited, and all interested individuals must complete the APCO DEI application to be considered for admittance to the class.
