CORRECTION: KHP has informed Salina Post that the information provided for the below story is from KHP Lieutenant Alex Taylor. The story has been changed to reflect that.
. . .
By SALINA POST
Get an up-close look at what it takes to be a Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) dispatcher during an open house Feb. 28.
In 2002, KHP centralized its dispatch services for the state to one location. Troopers are dispatched from the State Central Dispatch in Salina regardless of where they are working in the state. The KHP Communications Center is located in the KHP facility on the former Marymount College campus in east Salina. The facility also includes the KHP Training Academy and the Troop C headquarters.
The open house, scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Feb. 28, is designed for persons who are considering careers as KHP dispatchers. Space is limited to 20 persons as the KHP must conduct a background check to ensure the protection of Criminal Justice Information Systems data, according to KHP Lieutenant Alex Taylor.
Interested persons should register via the KHP website: https://kansashighwaypatrol.org/khpjobsorg/career-opportunities/communications-specialist/.
The open house will consist of an hour-long presentation and discussion, as well as an hour to sit with dispatchers and observe their workings in a live environment, Taylor told Salina Post.
"I have long recognized the value of this position to those who seek a role in public service. It is an opportunity to be a part of the betterment of society without having to place yourself in harm’s way daily. For some, this is what they desire," Taylor noted. "For others, dispatch offers a stepping stone into this world of law enforcement. For many college students who desire a role as a LEO, they must wait to be 21 before applying for a position. Dispatch minimum age is 18, which gives a person three years of knowledge and experience that they can carry over to set them ahead in their new career."
A dispatch position is a 40-hour-per-week job. KPERS state retirement benefits are earned and are inclusive when working for other KPERS organizations, according to Taylor.
While some students may have schedule conflicts that would not allow them to work as a dispatcher, Taylor said there currently are several dispatchers who are completing their college degrees while working in the KHP Communications Center.
"Dispatching is no simple task. It requires a high level of multi-tasking, computer skills, and independent work. The communications center is staffed 24/7 holidays and weekends. Shifts are divided into three time periods: days 0600-1400 hours, evenings 1400-2200 hours, and midnights 2200-0600 hours," Taylor said. "Dispatchers are regularly involved in multiple incidents recording information, gathering assistance, and providing guidance. As our center does not directly take 911 emergency phone calls our dispatchers do not provide medical guidance over the phone."