November 20, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Police Department Dispatchers – Courtesy RPD Facebook
Rawlins Police Department Dispatchers were chosen as the best in the state.
Last week, the Association of Professional Communication Officials and National Emergency Number Association held their annual conference in Casper. During the meeting, Rawlins Police Lieutenant Rick Hooper was awarded Information Technologist of the Year and the entire Rawlins dispatch staff received the Team of the Year award.
Rawlins Police Department Dispatch Supervisor Valeta Rodabaugh said the two national organizations establish the way emergency communications professionals operate across the country.
Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward said Rodabaugh nominated both her team and Lt. Hooper for the dispatcher awards. Chief Ward explained how Lt. Hooper keeps the city’s dispatch center operational.
Dispatch Supervisor Rodabaugh said Lt. Hooper uses his self-taught skills to ensure the Rawlins Police Department can serve the community effectively and efficiently.
As well as recognizing the contributions of Lt. Hooper, the Association of Professional Communication Officials and National Emergency Number Association honored the entire Rawlins PD dispatch crew. Chief Mike Ward said last week’s award is the second time in three years the Rawlins dispatch team has been selected as Team of the Year.
Dispatch Supervisor Rodabaugh said her team doesn’t do anything differently than other departments across Wyoming. Rodabaugh said Rawlins dispatchers keep the Rawlins Police Department functioning properly by working hard.
Chief Ward said Rodabaugh’s management style is the reason for the Rawlins dispatch center’s success. The police chief said Rodabaugh has created a tight-knit team.
The Rawlins Police Department’s dispatch crew is made up of five people. Rodabaugh recognized her team.
Chief Ward said Anna Blackford and Brianna Battson also served with the dispatch team during the period the award covers. The police chief said both women are no longer employed by the department, but they both contributed to the team.
Chief Ward said dispatching is a county-wide effort. The police chief said he appreciates his dispatch team and Lt. Hooper for the work they do to keep the public safe.
The award recipients received plaques and gift baskets from the event organizers.
Both Lt. Hooper and the Rawlins PD dispatch team will be submitted for national recognition by the Association of Professional Communication Officials and National Emergency Number Association.
