Reineke

As the 911 Director of the Marshall County Communications Center, it is both a privilege and an honor to publicly recognize one of our own, Supervisor Caitlan Reineke, for achieving one of the most esteemed professional milestones in the public safety communications industry–the Registered Public-Safety Leader (RPL) designation from the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International. This achievement reflects not only Caitlan’s unwavering dedication to professional growth but also her commitment to enhancing the standards of emergency communications here in Marshall County and beyond.

Earning the RPL designation is no small feat. The program is structured to develop and enhance leadership skills specifically for public safety professionals who are committed to making a difference within their agencies and communities. The RPL is not merely a title–it is a testament to the rigorous, year-long process that challenges individuals to grow intellectually, professionally, and personally.

APCO International, the oldest and largest organization of public safety communications professionals, established the RPL program as part of its strategic mission to cultivate leaders in 911 communications centers nationwide. Since its inception, the program has earned a reputation for being one of the most challenging and enriching leadership development courses in the field. The curriculum is designed with intention, merging practical leadership theories with the unique dynamics of emergency communication centers. It is an online, year-long course that demands a high level of discipline, initiative, and time management.

Participants in the RPL program engage in a robust blend of coursework that includes reading assignments, peer discussions, written reflections, and applied leadership projects. These learning components are grounded in proven leadership models, communication strategies, and public safety operational practices. However, what truly sets this program apart is its capstone requirement–a substantial leadership project that must have a tangible impact at the local, state, or national level.

Caitlan’s completion of this capstone project is a testament to her drive and vision. To succeed in this area, candidates must identify a real-world issue, conduct a comprehensive analysis, develop a plan of action, and implement meaningful change. The project must not only demonstrate a deep understanding of leadership principles but also produce results that benefit the broader public safety community. This level of responsibility requires strategic thinking, stakeholder engagement, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Throughout her RPL journey, Caitlan exemplified these very traits. Her project, which addressed Telecommunicator training, highlighted her ability to lead, innovate, and influence positive change within our center and potentially across the state. Her work will undoubtedly serve as a valuable resource for other agencies looking to implement similar strategies, thereby extending the reach of her leadership beyond Marshall County.

What makes Caitlan’s achievement even more significant is that she is only the second individual in Marshall County to have earned this distinction. This milestone not only sets her apart in her professional career but also elevates the standards for leadership within our organization. Her commitment reinforces the values we hold dear at the Marshall County Communications Center–integrity, accountability, continuous learning, and a deep-seated dedication to public service.

The RPL program also fosters a strong sense of mentorship and peer collaboration. Candidates are expected to work closely with other public safety professionals from across the country, creating a national network of emerging leaders who share best practices, offer support, and build lifelong professional connections. Caitlan’s success in navigating this collaborative environment reflects her ability to build relationships, adapt to diverse perspectives, and contribute to a culture of shared excellence.

Beyond the academic and professional components, the RPL journey requires significant personal commitment. Participants often balance full-time work, family responsibilities, and the intense demands of the program. Caitlan’s ability to persevere through these challenges with grace and professionalism speaks volumes about her work ethic, time management, and resilience–qualities that make her not only an outstanding supervisor but also a role model within our center.

Caitlan’s journey through the RPL program also reflects the importance of investing in our staff’s professional development. As an agency, we recognize that our strength lies in our people, and when we empower them to grow and lead, the entire organization benefits. Her achievement is a beacon of what is possible when commitment meets opportunity, and it underscores our agency’s ongoing efforts to promote leadership development at every level.

In today’s rapidly evolving emergency communications landscape, leaders like Caitlan are more important than ever. The role of a 911 Communications Supervisor extends far beyond managing day-to-day operations. It requires strategic foresight, adaptability, technical proficiency, and above all, a profound commitment to the safety and well-being of the communities we serve. Caitlan’s leadership reflects all these attributes and more. Her voice carries weight, her decisions inspire confidence, and her example raises the bar for others to follow.

At the Marshall County Communications Center, we are proud to have Caitlan Reineke as part of our leadership team. Her successful completion of APCO’s Registered Public-Safety Leader Program is a monumental achievement, not just for her, but for our entire organization. It affirms our collective belief in nurturing leadership, embracing challenges, and striving for excellence in every facet of our work.

On behalf of the entire leadership team and staff, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Supervisor Caitlan Reineke. Thank you for your commitment, your passion, and your unwavering pursuit of excellence. You exemplify the very best of what public safety communications can be.

Your accomplishment is not just a personal victory — it is a proud moment for all of Marshall County.

We celebrate you. We believe in you. And we believe in Marshall County.

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Rhonda Braudis, RPL/CPE, is the Marshall County 911 Communications director.