GECA offering grant for Next Generation 911 Training

ATLANTA– The Georgia Emergency Communications Authority (GECA) has opened applications for a  911 Training Grant that fully reimburses primary 911 Centers for Next Generation 911 training.

Each of Georgia’s 155 primary 911 Centers will receive $10,000 that can be used to reimburse the cost of approved courses that provide training for Next Generation 911. At over $1.5 million, this is the largest investment ever into training for our 911 centers in the State of Georgia.

“As Georgia prepares for the transition to Next Generation 911, it’s critical that 911 call takers and dispatchers receive the necessary training for the safety of all Georgians,” said GECA Executive Director Michael Nix.

The Grant can be used to pay for over 100 courses approved by the GECA Board of Directors, with topics including cybersecurity for Next Generation 911, crisis communications and emergency medical dispatch. GECA is also partnering with the Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC) to provide courses at 911 Centers across Georgia.

“The better trained we are, the better we serve those who need our assistance,” said Crisp County Sheriff and GECA Board of Directors Chairperson Billy Hancock. “It’s a win-win for everyone, with a forward-thinking Executive Director who puts the citizens of this great state first.”

Applications for reimbursement will be accepted through January 31, 2022. For more information on the program and how to apply, visit https://gema.georgia.gov/what-we-do/emergency- communications.