The Transformative Journey: How the 911der Woman Fireworks Scholarship Impacted My 17-Year Career in 911 Dispatch

Written by Erin Allwardt, CMCP

As a 911 professional with 17 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to serving the community and ensuring that help is always just a call away. 

Throughout this time, I have faced numerous challenges and changes within the 911 dispatch environment. 

I have always been a firm believer that simple decisions can have the biggest impact. A seemingly simple decision to apply for a scholarship has had ripple effects in my personal and professional life. 

I remember the day pretty vividly. I was in  Clearwater, Florida, attending NENA Standards and Best Practices. What better time to open an email, announcing I was receiving the 911der Woman Fireworks Scholarship. 

Now, a year later, I can, without a doubt, say becoming a recipient has been a pivotal moment in my career, providing me with invaluable tools and insights that have shaped my professional growth.

The Power of the 911der Woman Fireworks Scholarship 

The 911der Woman Fireworks Scholarship is more than just financial assistance; it represents a commitment to uplifting women in the 911 profession and recognizing their contributions to public safety. 

In this profession, where the majority of front-line and middle management is female while upper management and command staff are male, moments to equip and empower women are monumental.

Being selected as a scholarship recipient instilled in me a renewed sense of purpose and motivation. It reinforced the idea that women can excel in this field and encouraged me to pursue additional education and training that would further enhance my capabilities.

With this scholarship's support, I could enroll in the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) Center Manager Certification Program (CMCP). This program was instrumental in deepening my understanding of the operational aspects of a dispatch center, leadership principles, and the importance of effective communication.

Empowerment Through Education

Completing the NENA CMCP certification course has empowered me in countless ways. The course provided me with the latest knowledge and best practices in the industry, equipping me to tackle the evolving dynamics of a 911 dispatch center. I learned about strategic planning, resource management, and how to foster a positive work culture among staff, which is crucial in a high-stress environment.

One of the most significant lessons I gained was the importance of adaptability. The field of emergency dispatch is constantly changing due to advancements in technology and shifts in community needs. 

CMCP taught me how to embrace these changes and effectively lead my team through transitions. I believe this newfound awareness will enhance the overall efficiency of our dispatch operations.

Building Stronger Teams

Another positive effect of the scholarship and subsequent education is my enhanced ability to lead and mentor others. 

With the knowledge I gained, I am now more equipped to foster collaboration among my colleagues and encourage professional development within my team. I understand the value of empowering my peers, especially women in the 911 field, to pursue their own educational opportunities and career advancements.

While promoting a culture of continuous learning and support, we will see a notable increase in morale and job satisfaction among my team members. When everyone feels valued and empowered, it creates a more effective dispatch center where we can all work together seamlessly to serve our community.

Looking Ahead

As I reflect on my 17-year career, I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way, particularly through the 911der Woman Fireworks Scholarship. 

This experience has not only transformed my professional capabilities but has also inspired me to advocate for further educational initiatives for women in public safety.

The scholarship and knowledge gained from the NENA CMCP certification course have equipped me to face the future of 911 dispatch with confidence and resilience. I look forward to continuing my journey, mentoring the next generation of dispatchers, and contributing to a field that plays such a vital role in our communities.

If you ever question whether or not to apply for a scholarship, know that you are worthy of expanding your knowledge. 

The impact of the 911der Woman Fireworks Scholarship on my career has been profound. It has empowered me to embrace change, lead effectively, and inspire others, reinforcing the idea that with the right support and education, we can all make a difference in the world of emergency services.

I can’t wait to see the 2025 recipients and their journeys. 

Thank you, Erin for sharing your experience with us. If you are interested in writing a blog, please email amanda@911derwomen.com. Sign up for our newsletter on our homepage to stay up to date with 911der Women programming, exclusive content and blog updates. Click here and scroll to the bottom.