Teresa Burkhart
Central Point,OR
Summary
Experienced Dispatcher with over five years serving as a lead within the Oregon Department of Forestry and Oregon Department of Transportation. Demonstrated expertise in team leadership, developing innovative procedures, and implementing training exercises to enhance response efficiency and strengthen communication between dispatchers and field responders. Strong ability to preform under pressure and coordinate effective incident responses. Skilled in monitoring operations for compliance with established procedures and policies across both emergency and non-emergent incidents.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Wildland Fire Dispatcher
Oregon Department of Forestry
05.2022 - Current
- Collaborated multiple emergency service agencies to facilitate coordinated multi-agency responses, delivering efficient operations during critical incidents.
- Enhanced communication and operational efficiency between resources and the dispatch center by conducting regular training sessions.
- Kept precise dispatch records for efficient incident tracking and reporting.
- Played an integral role in developing and implementing dispatch training materials and protocols to enhance the efficiency of emergency response operations.
Lead Transportation Telecommunication Specialist 1
Oregon Department of Transportation
04.2020 - 04.2022
- Participated in recruitment activities for new dispatch staff members, including conducting interviews and assessing candidates according to their skills and experience.
- Led a team of dispatchers, providing guidance and mentorship to improve overall job performance.
- Collaborated with emergency services, ensuring timely support during critical situations.
- Managed incoming calls by assessing urgency and and prioritizing incidents accordingly.
- Monitored incidents to ensure dispatchers entered complete and accurate documentation.
Transportation Telecommunication Specialist 1
Oregon Department of Transportation
10.2019 - 03.2020
- Adhered to all agency protocols and procedures to maintain the safety of field units, fellow first responders, and the public.
- Worked with OSP, 911 Dispatch centers, and partner agencies for efficient communication, resource allocation, and the use of operational tools during joint operations.
- Monitored the shared Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system used by OSP and ODOT and provided updates to first responders to maintain situational awareness.
- Utilized the Law Enforcement Data System (LEDS) to coordinate hazard tows and support responder safety.
Seasonal Lead Wildfire Dispatcher
Oregon Department of Forestry
05.2019 - 10.2019
- Demonstrated composure and efficiency in high-stress situations, ensuring prompt and effective responses.
- Responded to public inquiries about concerns and complaints, and handled challenging situations appropriately.
- Provided training and guidance to new team members to ensure adherence to local, state and federal regulations governing wildfire response.
- Provided effective communication with ground and aerial resources by utilizing clear, and brief language when communicating with first responders.
Seasonal Transportation Telecommunication Spec. 1
Oregon Department of Transportation
11.2017 - 05.2019
- Operated the Pantel radio and telephone communication systems, ensuring timely and appropriate responses.
- Assisted units and agencies by using cameras and variable message boards to locate public safety hazards and reduce risks to first responders.
- Consistently managed sensitive incident information with discretion, strictly following confidentiality protocols and safeguarding individuals' privacy.
Seasonal Wildland Fire Dispatcher
Oregon Department of Forestry
06.2017 - 05.2019
- Monitored several computer systems and frequencies at once during incidents to support quick, informed decisions.
- Mentored fellow dispatchers, offering guidance and promoting a positive team atmosphere.
- Participated in dispatcher training programs and maintained current knowledge of industry practices.
- Kept field personnel informed and supported at every stage of the incident.
Education
No Degree - Fire Science
Rogue Community College
Grants Pass, OR Skills
- Management of incident response operations
- Critical Decision-making
- Team Building
- Emergency response coordination
- Effective Communication
- Interagency Collaboration
- Attention to detail
- Effective decision-making skills
- Simultaneous task management
- Adaptability in evolving incidents
Timeline
Lead Wildland Fire Dispatcher
Oregon Department of Forestry
05.2022 - Current
Lead Transportation Telecommunication Specialist 1
Oregon Department of Transportation
04.2020 - 04.2022
Transportation Telecommunication Specialist 1
Oregon Department of Transportation
10.2019 - 03.2020
Seasonal Lead Wildfire Dispatcher
Oregon Department of Forestry
05.2019 - 10.2019
Seasonal Transportation Telecommunication Spec. 1
Oregon Department of Transportation
11.2017 - 05.2019
Seasonal Wildland Fire Dispatcher
Oregon Department of Forestry
06.2017 - 05.2019
No Degree - Fire Science
Rogue Community College
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