The City of Nashville recently celebrated its dedicated emergency telecommunicators and communications training officers during the 2025 DEC Annual Awards Ceremony, highlighting the vital role these individuals play in ensuring public safety and effective communication within the community.

During the event, several employees were recognized for their outstanding contributions. Britney Rust was named March's Emergency Telecommunicator of the Month, praised for her exceptional work with the employee engagement committee. April's award went to Cecily Kelly, noted for her tech-savvy skills and problem-solving abilities. Other honorees included Courtney Lehman for February and Kaye Mullikin, who was recognized for her emergency response efforts.

The ceremony also honored the Communications Training Officers (CTOs) who are instrumental in training new dispatchers. Daniel Easley was recognized as January's CTO of the Month, followed by Nicole Pedraza in February and Lane Mathis in March. Sonia Strain received the April award, with a special mention of her efforts to ensure all award recipients could attend the ceremony.

These awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also emphasize the importance of teamwork and dedication in the emergency services sector. The recognition of these employees reflects the city's commitment to maintaining high standards in public safety and communication, ultimately benefiting the Nashville community as a whole. As the city continues to grow, the contributions of these telecommunicators and trainers will remain crucial in addressing the needs of residents and ensuring effective emergency response.