Celebrating Excellence: 2026 Golden Headset Award Winners

By: Aly Pickett

The 2026 Golden Headset Awards brought forward an incredible group of nominations, each highlighting the impact of emergency communications professionals in moments that matter most.

From individual performance to leadership, training and team response, this year’s submissions reflected the skill, dedication and professionalism that define the field.

After careful consideration, we’re proud to recognize this year’s winners.

2026 Golden Headset Award Winners
  • Outstanding Telecommunicator Team Leader – Mary Tynes, Emergency Communications Supervisor, Edmond Emergency Communications
    Mary demonstrated exceptional leadership by transforming her team into a confident, high-performing unit. Her ability to lead through critical incidents while supporting her team afterward set her apart.
  • Legacy Achievement (Custom Category) – Kim Lettrick, Manager, Southeast Communications
    With decades of service, Kim has left a lasting mark on emergency communications through mentorship, leadership and innovation. Her work continues to influence generations of telecommunicators and strengthen the profession.
  • Outstanding International Call Taker – Lara Gibson, Emergency Call Taker, London Ambulance Service
    Lara’s calm, controlled handling of a high-stress cardiac arrest call demonstrated the critical role call takers play worldwide. Her ability to guide a caller through life-saving actions reflects the very best of the profession on a global stage.
  • Outstanding Telecommunicator Mentor or Trainer – Dawn Harris, Emergency Dispatcher II, Edmond Emergency Communications
    Dawn’s influence goes beyond training procedures. By focusing on critical thinking and professional development, she is helping shape the next generation of telecommunicators and contributing to the growth of the profession.
  • Outstanding Telecommunicator – Jaclyn Higgins, Dispatcher, University of California Irvine Police Department
    Jaclyn’s work stood out for its consistency and impact across multiple incidents. Her ability to connect information, anticipate needs and follow through has led to meaningful outcomes that extend beyond any single call.
  • Outstanding Emergency Communications Team – Shoshone County Sheriff Office ECO Team
    During an active shooter incident that directly impacted their own facility, the Shoshone County team showed extraordinary resilience and coordination. Their ability to continue operations under direct threat exemplifies the highest level of teamwork and dedication.
Thank You

To everyone who has submitted a nomination, this year or any of the years prior, thank you. Your stories make this program possible, and it is our privilege to help share them.

Read the full stories behind this year’s winners: https://www.zetron.com/npstw-2026/

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