Wednesday, March 20th

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It is the responsibility of Communications personnel to be prepared for disaster. This class is a dynamic look at natural and man made threats that will make all attendees think how they can become better prepared.

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The Valley Communications Center serves as the 9-1-1 center for most of the Salt Lake Valley, serving eight communities. The center was a featured tour site for the National APCO Convention. Because of community growth and the fact that the Olympics were coming, the center was in dire need of additional space and facilities. This presentation will review the planning steps, the design of the new center, the financial issues, the operational concerns, and the cutover/move process that were required to move to their new center.

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A lengthy "training needs assessment" was conducted for 911 Supervisors and Managers. We have developed a cutting-edge class that will benefit any existing or new Supervisor or higher. Recruitment, retention, discipline, morale, accountability, counseling and administrative support are all included. This class is a great resource and skill builder for ANY 911 trainer, supervisor or manager. This will benefit both sworn and civilian members.

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Team Building 101 is intended for anyone interested in improving team performance and strengthening communication skills. Attendees will get an overview of how team building can have a positive impact on performance, communication and accountability, why team building is important, and what it takes to get team building started in your organization. People will leave this session with ten free ways to improve work place morale and some excellent tools to use day one upon returning to the work place.

Flagstaff 5

An overview of the successful implementation of E911 Wireless Phase I in Tucson/Pima County Az. This overview will outline the roadblocks encountered, and how those issues were resolved

10:15 - Noon

Prescott 6

Spectrum Issues

This open forum will focus on the following topics: Status of the 700 MHz band, including decree of TV channel blockage, efforts to speed clearing of incumbent TV stations, interference issues, and status of NCC recommendations. 800 MHz interference and Nextel white paper. 138-144 MHz band sharing potential. New FCC allocation at 4.9 GHz. Using the FCC waiver policy to obtain non-public safety spectrum.

Prescott 7

This presentation will describe the mission of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams, and the role of communications in support of this mission. We will describe USAR operations at the WTC and Oklahoma terrorist incidents, as well as special communications support for the 2001 World Series and 2002 Winter Olympics.

Prescott 9

Flagstaff 5

The presentation will detail a case study of the Utah Highway Patrol, 2002 Winter Games, and local area police departments whose use of AVL for mutual aid can serve as a model for other public safety agencies.

Prescott 9

With the goal of improving communication center hiring practices, Ergometrics conducted numerous focus groups with emergency communication professionals. Come explore research highlights, including analysis of job demands and hiring and training challenges. Multitasking and other areas are explored with demonstrations of how advances in testing technology enhance communications center hiring.

Flagstaff 1

Few things are as frustrating as hiring and training a highly qualified new employee only to have them quit a short time later. There are many things you can do before, during, and after the hiring process that may affect an employee's decision to stay or leave, often at little or no cost. You will learn proven, effective methods for reducing turnover while addressing fairness issues to minimize legal exposure.

Flagstaff 2

As the front line knows all too well, crime is boundless. Regional Information Sharing is an integrated, cost-effective solution that empowers agencies with the tools & resources critical to meeting the nation’s homeland security demands. Learn first-hand the proven success of this regional relational database solution that delivers comprehensive information, promotes officer safety, increases apprehension and reduces agency cost.

Flagstaff 3

Having the right information at the right time about a defendant can keep dangerous individuals off the streets. Using integrated justice, the process can be improved to better manage information, including sharing criminal history information across jurisdictions, managing defendant location and tracking, reducing information redundancy, and increasing reporting timeliness.

Flagstaff 4

A peer support team can assist members in maintaining health and productivity, prevent traumatic stress effects, restore personnel to normal functions and enhance the overall environment in which the person works. Learn the core components of a team as well as common stress effects and stress management tips.

Flagstaff 5

This presentation is for anyone interested in learning about mitigating disasters through Emergency Notification. The plusses and minuses of the various forms of notification will be discussed to include sirens, media broadcasts, manual notification, personal paging, NOAA weather radio, and telephone. Telephone notification will be discussed in-depth.

1:00 - 2:00 pm

Prescott 6

Project 39 Forum

An open discussion on Project 39 (800 MHz interference issues).

Prescott 7

The Arizona cities of Phoenix and Mesa have collaborated to build a regional network of independent 800 MHz trunked radio systems using the Project 25 digital standards. This presentation will discuss the partnership, the process that has been used, the results to date, and the future of the network.

Prescott 9

This presentation will discuss the steps necessary to implement a Phase II GIS solution for the PSAP. A descriptive flowchart discussion will detail a logical step by step process by which map data is created, processes are developed, and systems are maintained. This forum will address many of the wireless and mapping issues associated with current and future PSAP systems.

Thursday, March 21st

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This session involves: 1. Finding the best sources for grants. 2. Preparing for the write. 3. Following instructions, implicitly and 4. writing an irresistible proposal. This session covers it all – with examples and tips along the way to improve your chances for grant success. Grant sources – both on line and some handouts will be shared.

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As a consultant with iXP Corporation, the firm that successfully delivered public safety projects and technology solutions in Manhattan, including the FDNY and New York City Police, Terri shares first hand stories of the tragedy at the World Trade Center as seen from the eyes of the PSAP. Many of Terri's co-workers were on-site at New York's 9-1-1 Center when the terrorists attached the WTC. (The photo's are overwhelming).

Flagstaff 3

This presentation is designed to help operational personnel in dealing with the frustrating task of hospital divert. City of Tucson Communications and Tucson Fire Department Medical section went forward and took an active roll in solving the problem of shopping for a hospital or trauma center. We will show you what we did to make a very bad situation a lot better. By making it better we helped the field personnel, dispatch personnel and most importantly the public we serve.

Flagstaff 4

Liability is a concern for all tiers of the 9-1-1 professions from trainees to training officers, supervisors and communications mangers. We will look at state specific laws and legal terms every dispatcher should know. Case law and histories will be presented and how they impact 9-1-1; a look at incidents that have put dispatchers in the legal spotlight and discuss confidential issues relating to medical issues and officer safety.

Flagstaff 5

Allen County, IN was the first county in the United States to be Phase I compliant. Realizing the limitations of off-the-shelf mapping products and the numerous errors associated with geocoding, the county undertook a cost-effective approach to GIS implementation using the latest available technology. If you are putting maps in your PSAP, this is one session you will not want to miss! 

Prescott 7

The National Public Safety Telecommunications Council is a federation of all public safety associations including APCO. It’s purpose has been to be a collective voice and has had extensive involvement with the FCC, the NCC, and key congressional members on public safety urgent issues such as defining what the service rules will be for the 700MHz block of spectrum slated for public safety in 2006. NPSTC is also active in working with DOD on finding a way to share the 138-144MHz spectrum, (APCO V.P. Vinnie Stiles Chairs that effort). At the request of APCO, AASHTO, IMSA, FCCA a 700 MHz pre-coordination database is being developed for all 55 Regional Planners and agencies. NPSTC is providing grant funding right now to assist public safety agencies in the planning and development for every RPC.

8:00 - 8:50 am

Prescott 9

Systems Integration: How to Achieve Success in the Development of Today's Advanced Communications Center.

In today’s advanced communications center the need to share information and to decrease the workload and pressures of the 911 world is dependent upon choosing the correct technology.  Creating a system that integrates all aspects of communication and data collections is imperative to insure streamlined operations.  This presentation will focus on choosing an integrated solution to meet the demands of today's and tomorrows communication center.

Flagstaff 1

This presentation will include a historical look at the Arizona efforts to obtain an enhanced retirement program. The effort culminated in a 25 year-and-out retirement option for public safety communications professionals. Included will be lessons learned and recommendations for your efforts.

Flagstaff 2

This class is designed to give 911 operators and dispatchers a general understanding of basic negotiation techniques. The class will cover the different types of incidents, basic negotiation guidelines, active listening skills as well as suicide and suicide by cop situations.

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Doreen Wasick, Mesa Public Safety

Identifying who your customers are can help you improve your customer service. Learn why you should give customer service and effective customer service tips.

Flagstaff 4

As the title suggests, this class covers managing risk through training. Increased training equals reduced risk; reduced risk equals less liability. The TPD Communications program provides solid realistic ongoing verifiable training for personnel daily. The class includes how the training occurs without utilizing overtime, tracking the training, and how training scenarios are selected.

Flagstaff 5

This presentation will discuss the steps necessary to implement a Phase II GIS solution for the PSAP. A descriptive flowchart discussion will detail a logical step by step process by which map data is created, processes are developed, and systems are maintained. This forum will address many of the wireless and mapping issues associated with current and future PSAP systems.

9:00 - 9:50 am 

Prescott 7

Integrating Wireless LAN into a Mobile Data System

Learn about the necessity to integrate Wireless LAN into a Mobile Data System.  Discussed will be elements that make up a mobile data solution such as hardware, software, applications, middleware and the variety of wireless networks.  Also learn how a combination of networks and the above elements can solve coverage or capacity issues

9:00 - 9:50 am 

Prescott 9

Interoperability Efforts in Arizona

Arizona Public Safety Communications Committee (PSCC) - A nontechnical discussion reviewing "Coordinated Approaches to Improved Interoperable Public Safety Communications in Arizona"

Flagstaff 1

Your Communications’ area has low morale and more staff. The new 9-1-1 system isn’t working as well as your people think it should. The new CAD system is being installed. Your building expansion is underway. Use this manager’s playbook to keep things on track.

Flagstaff 3

This presentation will explain the use of K9’s in police work. Learn how the K9 uses his nose to find bad guys. An overview will be given on the training for both the K9 and the handler. Officer Jeffries will bring his K9 partner Maverick to display his abilities.

Flagstaff 4

One of the lynchpins to successful emergency responses is proper radio and telephonic communication. Properly developed pre-employment tests can help select those applicants who possess the essential skills needed for today’s increasingly complex computerized public-safety communication positions, such as 9-1-1 telephone and radio operators. This session is designed to help attendees maximize the value of their pre-employment testing programs while addressing fairness issues to minimize legal exposure. After this presentation, attendees will understand how computerized work-sample testing can better meet their needs for today’s complex communication’s workplace than traditional paper-and-pencil tests, typing tests, or testing using outdated hardware simulations. Attendees will also better understand the federal legal environment for selection testing and learn how they can obtain information, for no charge, from the federal government about selection testing.

Flagstaff 5

If you are interested in understanding wireless 9-1-1, attend this class. This presentation will provide a status of wireless Phase II, as well as insights into the cause for the delay. Technological solutions that will be used by the wireless providers will be explained, and tasks PSAP's can perform in order to prepare to fully utilize Phase I and II will be provided. See you there!

Prescott 7

This technical presentation concentrates on the new technology of using fiber optic cables to distribute RF signals. Wireless systems can now transport RF signals up to 10 miles with Zero net loss. Latest fiber systems can also provide in-building RF distribution. This session provides an introduction to the technology as well as practical, proven application details. Actual hardware and real specifications will be displayed to attendees.

Prescott 9

The demographics of the United States are changing rapidly. Understanding the favored ways of communicating in our law enforcement culture as well as those of other races, cultures, and ethnicities will go a long way in helping us to make a great job even better.

Flagstaff 1

The presentation will provide an overview on how 9-1-1 works. Although it appears to be magic, it's not. Information will include, a history of 9-1-1, terminology, how it works, who pays the bills, administration of the system and problems encountered. The program will wrap up with a look into the future of 9-1-1.

Flagstaff 2

The events of September 11, 2001 have left an emotional impact not only on our nation, but particularly with Communications Centers nationwide. We, as 9-1-1 professionals, have been and will be faced with incidents that are out of the "norm." This session will explore the emotional crisis that was September 11th and the affects it has on our profession. We will take a look at some of the unique stressors brought on by those events and learn how you can learn to cope and manage in your professional and personal life.

Flagstaff 3

This domestic violence class will cover issues that lead to causes of the problem, different types of domestic violence, and ways for an individual to get out of this situation.

Flagstaff 4

How to Close with Success

Flagstaff 5

In recent years, the impact of wireless 9-1-1 within the industry has created a multitude of challenges for the existing E9-1-1 infrastructure.  This discussion will review the potential of using GIS technology to help manage the needs of PSAPs in an ever-challenging environment.  A blue print of how to design a GIS for public safety will be presented.  The roles of traditional ALI, Wireless, GIS data maintenance and map display will be discussed.

Prescott 7

The seminar will provide an in-depth view of today’s energy system components, including a review of the three unique battery chemistries and tradeoffs, and review today’s maintenance tasks required to manage battery life/performance. In addition, the seminar will include a synopsis of the industry’s new smart energy technology, and illustrate the benefits in radio performance, battery life, and management expense.

Flagstaff 1

Equal access to telephone emergency communications can mean the difference between life and death for citizens who use TDD/TTYs. But is equal access really possible? This is an informative session to help you gain an understanding of what must be done to evaluate accessibility in your agency and find solutions for what may seem to be impossible. Remember, the key to success is having the proper tools and techniques. Don’t self-destruct…. Accept this as your mission today.

Flagstaff 2

The demographics of the United States are changing rapidly. Understanding the favored ways of communicating in our law enforcement culture as well as those of other races, cultures, and ethnicities will go a long way in helping us to make a great job even better.

Flagstaff 3

Panelists will describe and demonstrate the Phoenix Fire Department's new mobile computer hardware, software and data systems. Panelists will describe issues faced and the decisions made. Questions and comments from the audience will be used to keep the discussion focused on areas of interest to the attendees.

Flagstaff 4

This course will explore various methods for motivating employees. There will be emphasis on the problem or substandard employee. Issues discussed will look at training, positive and negative discipline as well as documentation

Flagstaff 5

Wireless Implementation 101 - Just getting started with Phase I. The speaker will provide an overview of wireless Phase I implementation procedures, which includes network overviews of CAS/NCAS and H-CAS. The speaker will also provide information that is needed in order to complete wireless deployment such as data collection, PSAP and Call Routing Boundary verifications, MSAG and testing procedures. This is a wonderful session for new comers to Phase I wireless 9-1-1 deployments.

Prescott 7

Prescott 9

As the title suggests, this class covers managing risk through training. Increased training equals reduced risk; reduced risk equals less liability. The TPD Communications program provides solid realistic ongoing verifiable training for personnel daily. The class includes how the training occurs without utilizing overtime, tracking the training, and how training scenarios are selected.

Prescott 7

This seminar addresses post 9-11 issues, new lessons learned, old issues resurfaced. Plans included redundancy, interoperability, information sharing between agencies during disasters, now is the time to act. Be challenged to assess how ready your communications system is for a major disaster and what technology solutions exist today for implementation.

Flagstaff 1

This presentation will discuss current practices for hiring qualified police personnel. Areas that will be discussed relate to oral board interviews, polygraphs, and background investigations. The presentation will offer an information exchange and expose the audience to hiring practices that are currently used by the Tempe Police Department.

Flagstaff 3

The dispatcher is the true first responder and must have a basic informational knowledge of weapons of mass destruction. The presentation will be an informative look various WMDs & NBCs.

Flagstaff 4

The APCO Virtual College (AVC) is an internet based distance learning program for telecommunicators and 9-1-1 operators. The AVC is a cooperative effort between APCO International and the Institute for Emergency Preparedness (IEP) at Jacksonville State University (JSU). After completing the first six course students receive an APCO International Certificate. Students can also earn an Associate Degree in Public Safety Telecommunications and a Bachelor of Science with a major in Emergency Management. The first students received the APCO International Certificate in August 2001. We project that the first associate degrees will be awarded in May of 2001.

Flagstaff 5

Wireless Implementation - Moving on To Phase II. The speaker will provide a brief overview of Phase I requirements in order to prepare you for Phase II deployments. This session will also provide network overviews to include CAS/NCAS, HCAS, as well as other educational information on GSM networks and E2 requirements. This is an excellent session for individuals needing a good understanding for Phase II wireless 9-1-1 requirements.

Flagstaff 1

Team Building 101 is intended for anyone interested in improving team performance and strengthening communication skills. Attendees will get an overview of how team building can have a positive impact on performance, communication and accountability, why team building is important, and what it takes to get team building started in your organization. People will leave this session with ten free ways to improve work place morale and some excellent tools to use day one upon returning to the work place.

Flagstaff 2

Dave will share his experiences of the World Trade Center tragedies through the eyes of an incident dispatcher. The class will also allow you to learn vital lessons that Dave did. Dave was deployed as part of USAR Task Force 3 and was soon assigned the duties of an Incident Dispatcher. This gripping session will allow you to assess threats in your community and take a serious look at your agency preparedness.

Prescott 7

Understand what to expect when disaster strikes. Learn from the experience of the users and the equipment suppliers. Firsthand experience will provide valuable insight as to how the emergency situation unfolded from the respondent’s standpoint, their supplier relationship and the importance of thorough pre-planning between various agencies and neighboring communities.

Prescott 9

This course will explore various methods for motivating employees. There will be emphasis on the problem or substandard employee. Issues discussed will look at training, positive and negative discipline as well as documentation

Flagstaff 4

This session covers suicide involving sworn personnel, civilian personnel and how it affects the department as well as the individual families (the domino effect) and friends.

Flagstaff 5

This session will offer 911 MSAG Coordinators and 911 PSAP Coordinators a presentation on how to organize your 911 data. It will help to organize your work to efficiently maintain your 911 data and the effectiveness of your 911 system

Prescott 7

Emerging technologies include digital wireless. This presentation discusses the various types of present-day radio systems characteristics of FDMA and TDMA technologies and a comparison of the two.

Friday, March 22

Prescott 7

This is the only class of its type in the nation. We have taken those "oh no" moments and built a class that will prepare call takers for unique events. Call types include: Abducted Children Calls, Prowler Calls, Home Invasion, Missing Persons, Natural Disasters, Suspicious Circumstances, Moving Wireless Emergencies, and other emerging call types. We will also build your skills for helping unique callers like the elderly, depressed and juvenile callers. This class offers fantastic resources and techniques.

Flagstaff 9

Doreen Wasick, Mesa Public Safety

Identifying who your customers are can help you improve your customer service. Learn why you should give customer service and effective customer service tips.