Answer the Call: A Life-Changing Career Starts in Peace River

Become an AHS Emergency Communications Officer

Lin Sturgeon, Director of Dispatch Communications

Director of Dispatch Communications

In the face of an emergency, every moment counts—and behind every swift and effective response, there’s an Emergency Communications Officer (ECO) making critical decisions.

As the vital link between the public and emergency services, ECOs take life-saving medical calls and dispatch ambulance services to rural and urban areas across the province of Alberta.

They are the calming voice on the other end of line. They assess the situation, provide advice and initiate a response to address the unique and sometimes urgent needs of the patient.

Located in Peace River, Alberta Health Services (AHS) Northern Communications Centre (NCC) offers a direct path to becoming a skilled and successful ECO within the emergency field that is close to home.

When pursuing this kind of career, candidates can be assured their motivation to make a difference will positively impact the trajectory of their working lives, as well as the lives they are directly assisting.

“Hard work pays off—especially in a field where every moment counts. At NCC, your dedication drives growth, creates opportunities and plays a crucial role in providing care when it’s needed most,” said Lin Sturgeon, Director of Dispatch Communications.

With established protocols and rapid decision-making, ECOs are the unseen heroes ensuring emergency responses are safe, efficient and effective.

Morgan Wilson, Team Lead ECO, Peace River

Offering competitive salaries and top of the line benefits such as dental, supplementary health, life insurance, disability coverage, a group savings plan (RRSP/TFSA), AD&D insurance, flex spending accounts, and a Local Authority Pension Plan, ECOs are looked after in and outside of their line of work.

“AHS also provides us with resources for our well being and mental health, which is vital when you are working in a high stress environment,” said Mikaela Dahl, 20, ECO in NCC Peace River.

Qualifications to become an ECO are straight forward. Applicants must have completed Grade 12 or equivalent and obtain an Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) certification.

Training is provided on site in Peace River at NCC for those who need their EMD certification, cutting out the need to travel long distances after being hired. This allows a wider range of people to apply and successfully start a career as an ECO.

“This is a great opportunity for someone who’s just finished high school, has a passion for helping people, and who wants to stay in their hometown,” said Morgan Wilson, 29, Team Lead ECO at NCC Peace River.

After starting in the centre, ECOs are paired with a mentor to help them through the four stages of call taking training, which creates stronger bonds between new and seasoned employees.

“Having a mentor with you throughout the whole training process takes a lot of the stress away—just knowing you have someone to lean on and ask any questions to,” said Dahl.

With responsibilities changing day to day, ECOs handle 911 calls from across the province for patients requesting EMS. They dispatch ambulances to emergency situations and coordinate inter-facility transfers.

Mikaela Dahl, ECO, Peace River

“I wake up everyday with a sense of purpose knowing I am helping people across Alberta on what is usually the worst day of their lives,” said Wilson. “It’s a feeling that is hard for me to explain, but it's why I love this career so much.”

Hiring locally is a priority, which has created many positive impacts on the community, as well as on employees within NCC. By accepting local applicants, AHS can support those living in and around Peace River, as well as support the local economy.

“It is important to highlight career opportunities locally to raise awareness about our job and help us create a community within our small town,” said Dahl. “Plus, I appreciate being able to stay close to my family and friends and spend my earnings locally.”

Often seen as a role that is highly rewarding and demanding, being an ECO is much more than what meets the eye. The experience itself is one of a kind, providing a career that many take pride in.

“If I could describe my job in one word, it would be meaningful. We all search for meaning in our lives and many of us find it through work,” said Wilson. “This is a career that connects you to something you care about. It makes you feel fulfilled, and it gives you a sense of purpose.”

For those interested in this career path, here is some simple and sound advice to consider:

“You have to be motivated, open to learning, have a strong support system and be prepared to work 12 hour shifts,” said Dahl. “This job is incredibly fulfilling and is a fantastic way to help those in need across the province.”

Apply to become an Emergency Communications Officer today: https://bit.ly/AHS-ECO