Tell us about your background. 
Heather: I started my career in public safety telecommunications in November 1998. Four months into the position I found myself as a “green” telecommunicator in the operations of working a fatality “officer down” radio call. I was promoted to full-time the following month. In 2002, I went from being a telecommunicator to the communications manager, which is the title I hold today. I have a true passion for this profession. I love the work and the challenges that come with it that have forced me to grow and develop. I am excited to share my expertise and experiences with others in the profession of public safety.

Marlene: My journey is about reinvention and life transformation. I will be sharing this journey of leaving a job of 20 years, and the path that led me to speaking at the Navigator conference.

What is your current position?
Heather: I am the Communications Manager/Director for the Halifax County E-911 Communications Center, located in Halifax, NC. I also work part-time as an EMT-B with the Gaston Volunteer Rescue Squad, a Public Safety Instructor with Halifax Community College, and recently certified as a National Certified Trainer of the Stop Workplace Drama methodology with Marlene Chism, Inc.

Marlene: I’m a consultant, professional speaker and author of Stop Workplace Drama (Wiley 2011).

What is your favorite thing about your job?
Heather: My interest in the professions I have chosen give me great joy.  I enjoy helping people by assisting them in their time of need, whether it’s answering and dispatching emergency call situations, being in the field of EMS, or helping leaders and managers in public safety find clarity in their roles of leadership.

Marlene: My passion is developing wise leaders, and helping people to discover, develop and deliver their gifts to the world.  I love the travel, the diversity of experiences, the creative work, and meeting interesting people. I love when I’m working with someone and they have a moment of enlightenment or a huge Ah-ha. It is in these moments that transformation happens.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a fellow dispatcher/comm center supervisor, etc.
Heather: Never harbor departmental secrets and to most importantly, be consistent in fairness and behavior. As leaders in public safety, you are being emulated, whether your behavior or your reactions are positive or negative. Your spectators or not only those you lead, but also those you service, including the public.

Marlene: Make a commitment to personal development. Attend conferences like NAVIGATOR. Attend tele seminars, listen to educational and motivational tapes. Read. Continue to grow and expand in all areas of your life. As a leader you can always delegate tasks; but no matter how much authority, position or power you hold, there is one thing you can never delegate and that is your own personal development.

Who is your favorite Disney character?
Heather: I have many favorites, to name one is difficult for me as I grew up with Disney.  I would say my favorite character I’ve enjoyed recently is Monster, Inc. (Sully &/or Mike). I love their teamwork and humor.

Marlene: Mickey Mouse

To learn more visit: http://iaednavigatorblog.com/marlene-chism-heather-joyner/
To attend the Navigator's conference, register here: https://www.emergencydispatch.org/NAVIGATOR/conference_registration
To learn more about training and certification opportunities visit: www.stopworkplacedrama.com