Celebrating Our Lifeline: National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week at Orange County ECC
By: Chris Cord, Director, Orange County Emergency Communications Center
Each year, during the second full week of April, we pause to recognize the unseen heroes behind every emergency—our 911 telecommunicators. National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (NPSTW) honors the more than 100,000 public safety telecommunicators across the United States who serve as the vital first link in the emergency response chain for police, fire, and EMS services. Often referred to as the “first, first responders,” these professionals provide lifesaving assistance, comfort, and direction in some of the most critical moments of people’s lives. At the Orange County Emergency Communications Center (ECC), we mark this important week with full-hearted celebration and gratitude culminating in our Annual Awards Ceremony. This year, several members of our ECC family were recognized for exceptional performance:
Dispatcher of the Year: Abbe Smithson Communications Officer Abbe Smithson was selected as Dispatcher of the Year for her tireless commitment to professional development and her leadership as a Communications Training Officer (CTO). Abbe consistently builds a strong foundation for new trainees, ensuring they are fully prepared and confident in their roles. Her dedication, hard work, and care for her community and team make her an invaluable member of our ECC.
Rookie of the Year: Lainey Lybarger Communications Officer Lainey Lybarger was named Rookie of the Year for her quick thinking, teamwork, and unwavering positivity. Lainey is always eager to lend a hand—whether to colleagues, field units, or callers—and her natural empathy shines through in every interaction. Her high energy, intelligence, and heartfelt approach have made her a standout addition to our team.
Outstanding Individual Performance: Justin Lynch Communications Officer Justin Lynch was recognized for Outstanding Individual Performance following his compassionate and professional handling of an extremely emotional suicide attempt call. Despite the caller's distress, Justin stayed on the line, offering calm reassurance and guiding responders to the scene. His empathy and composure exemplify the best of what it means to serve in this role.
Outstanding Team Performance: C Team – Jeremy Brown, Abbe Smithson, and Justin Lynch Our C Team, consisting of Jeremy Brown, Abbe Smithson, and Justin Lynch, received the award for Outstanding Team Performance for their coordination during a rare and complex emergency involving two
skydivers stranded in trees in a remote area. The team successfully managed multiple communication channels, coordinated emergency response across agencies, and facilitated a helicopter transport for one of the injured jumpers. Thanks to their quick and effective teamwork, the patient made a full recovery and even expressed plans to skydive again.
As we celebrate NPSTW, we extend our deepest gratitude to all the telecommunicators who serve with dedication, professionalism, and heart.
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