“One thing that would better help support 9-1-1 professionals across the board is better training programs.”

“I would hope to see, number one, above all, recognition that we are first responders.”

“Having representation, diversity in the job force that reflects what our communities look like is very important.”

“We have lost probably 30 percent of our workforce in the last two years.”

Ivan de la Torre | Tucson, Arizona

“What I find most rewarding about my work is knowing that I was able to provide a critical service to someone who is in high danger or high stress, and I was able to get them out of that situation.”

“It’s important to take care of our mental health as we’re doing this difficult work.”

“This is a high calling, and a lot of us feel strongly about making everything better for the next generation.”

“I already take pride in my work, and I just think that [reclassification] would be such a big morale booster for myself and my team.”

“I would classify all 9-1-1 dispatchers and call takers and anyone on radio traffic as a first responder.”