ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The second week in April traditionally marks National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
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This year, the community will honor first responders who gather and provide information that saves lives from April 9 through April 15.
Orange County Fire Rescue chose Stephanie Pockels for the 2023 Dispatcher of the Year award.
Director of Public Safety Danny Banks and Fire Chief James Fitzgerald and other senior staff members surprised Pockels on Thursday.
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The award is for the telecommunicator with the highest dedication to their job and the person who serves as a positive role model to others.
It also recognizes the core values of the department and communications center team.
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Pockels started with OCFRD in March 2020.
The fire department selected Pockels for her attention to detail, knowledge and compassion. Firefighters said Pockels is caring and regularly helps when needed.
OCFRD will present additional awards to individuals who have gone above and beyond.
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