Illinois State Police Honor New Telecommunicators and Promotions

30 new telecommunicators graduate intensive training program, 9 promoted to leadership roles

Apr. 19, 2026 at 1:30pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a telecommunicator's headset and computer monitor, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The Illinois State Police's telecommunicators serve as the crucial first link in the emergency response chain, connecting those in crisis with first responders.Springfield Today

The Illinois State Police (ISP) held a ceremony to honor 30 new telecommunicators who successfully completed the department's rigorous 6-12 month training program, as well as 9 telecommunicators who were recently promoted to lead worker, supervisor, and regional manager roles. The telecommunicators serve as the crucial first link in the emergency response chain, connecting individuals in crisis with first responders across the state's 102 counties.

Why it matters

Telecommunicators play a vital role in public safety, providing a calming voice and connecting those in need with emergency services. The ISP's investment in extensive training and recognition of excellence in this field helps ensure Illinois residents receive the best possible emergency response.

The details

Over the past several months, 30 telecommunicators completed ISP's intensive training program, which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on, scenario-based training. In addition, 9 existing telecommunicators were promoted to lead worker, supervisor, and regional manager roles within the department.

  • From November 2025 through February 2026, 30 telecommunicators completed the ISP training program.
  • The 9 telecommunicator promotions also occurred over the same timeframe.

The players

Brendan F. Kelly

Director of the Illinois State Police.

Illinois State Police

The state law enforcement agency that provides emergency communications and response services across Illinois' 102 counties.

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What they’re saying

“Telecommunicators are the calming voice on the line when people need emergency help the most. ISP provides extensive training, from Trooper to telecommunicator, to ensure we provide the best possible service to the people of Illinois. It's an honor to welcome our newest telecommunicators to the ISP family and recognize excellence in service.”

— Brendan F. Kelly, ISP Director

What’s next

ISP plans to hold an annual ceremony to celebrate new telecommunicator graduates and honor those who have been promoted.

The takeaway

The Illinois State Police's investment in comprehensive training and recognition of telecommunicator excellence helps ensure Illinois residents receive high-quality emergency response services across the state.