In the past few months, UK citizens have gone to the polls twice, first to elect their local Police and Crime Commissioners, then to vote in the General Election.

Last month elections took place for 37 police and crime commissioners (PCCs) in England and Wales and we wish them well as they embark on their ambitious plans for the next four years.

When you dial 9-1-1 it’s the voice of a telecommunicator on the other side of the line that you’ll hear. But making and taking that call wouldn’t be possible without the technical support behind the scenes.

Across every industry, accreditation programs promote superior products and services, and are generally recognized as a pinnacle of professional excellence. For example, organizations such as the CALEA (the Commission on Accredited Law Enforcement Association) and the International Association of Emergency Medical Dispatch (IAED) both offer accreditation for emergency communication centers.

It has been said that innovation is the art of being able to create something new, or re-arrange something old, in a new way. With so much changing in 9-1-1 there is a high demand for people who can think outside of the box. One such person is Denver 9-1-1’s Helena Rothenberger, who was named last year’s PSAPs’ Finest Innovator of the Year.