As we celebrate National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, we’re highlighting the dedicated professionals who serve as the first point of contact in an emergency.
Meet Jordan Rooney, a 911 Emergency Communication Officer with West Chester Township. With a background in EMS and a passion for helping others, Jordan brings both experience and heart to every call. In this Q&A, she shares what inspired her to become a dispatcher, how she manages the pressure of the job, and what she wishes more people knew about life behind the scenes.
What inspired you to work in public safety? How did you become a dispatcher?
Before starting my career at West Chester Township, I worked in the EMS field for almost 10 years. I think I have always had a calling for helping people in their time of need. When I became pregnant with my daughter, I knew I wanted to take a step back from the field but still help people and that’s when I found dispatching.
What do you wish more people knew about your job?
We are also first responders. Citizens may not physically see us in the community, but we are here listening and assisting over the phone. We may not see what is happening, but we hear it. It is left to our imagination what could possibly be happening on the other end of the call.
How do you stay calm under pressure?
For myself, I always think, “You will have the time to freak out later but right now there are officers or fire personnel that need your focus.” We need to make sure everyone goes home at the end of shift.
If you could describe your job in one word, what would it be?
Chaos. That is why we are sometimes referred to as Chaos Coordinator.