Kim Augustine, ENP

This special feature highlights NENA members from various backgrounds, industry segments, experiences, and geographic locations. It offers members an opportunity to share their stories with their colleagues and the greater NENA community. Email NENA Member Services Director Bri Robinson if we should feature you or someone you know.

NENA: Is there a particular event or call that you are particularly proud of?

Kim Augustine: On the evening of May 4, 2003, an F3 and F4 tornado touched down in Madison County, Jackson, Tennessee, damaging a very large portion of our community. 66 people were injured and 11 fatalities were reported. Two of our PSAPs were in the direct line of these tornadoes and our 9-1-1 professionals answered calls as long as they could before taking cover. They had bricks pummeling their buildings and debris flying all around. Once the tornadoes moved through, the restoration efforts began. With the assistance of state agencies as well as surrounding agencies, we were able to re-route 9-1-1 calls back to these PSAPs within a few hours so they could begin answering calls again. A few days later, it was announced that I would be promoted to the Madison County 911 Director. To say it was an easy transition is far from true. We had to repair and rebuild a great deal of equipment to have our facilities operating at 100 percent, but we made it through and gained a great deal of experience and knowledge along the way.

NENA: What advice do you have for those who are new to the 9-1-1 profession?

KA: I encourage anyone who has a heart to help others to please join the 9-1-1 family. Whether you are taking a 9-1-1 call or implementing new technology in the PSAPs, you will meet some amazing people. Through my years with 9-1-1, the most rewarding experience comes from working with NENA and my state chapter. NENA has always been my "go to" place to get information. My best advice to anyone new to the 9-1-1 profession is to GET INVOLVED! Get involved in your community, get involved with NENA, and get involved with your state chapter. These resources are a wealth of knowledge and always willing to assist you. Get involved and make a difference.

Click here to read the rest of our interview with Kim...