PSAPs’ Finest Honor Roll: Tina Powell, Director of Public Safety Communications, Weld County Regional Communications Center

January 27, 2025

As 2024 PSAPs’ Finest Director of the Year, Tina Weld knows, leadership isn’t about what goes on in the mind of a leader, it’s about what goes on in the minds of the people they lead. Tina engages in genuine, honest dialogue creating candor and trust among her staff. She has the unique ability to wonder curiously, to listen deeply, and draw out what matters most to people. Tina encourages and empowers her staff. She sets clear expectations, communicates a clear vision, gives autonomy over assignments, provides support and resources, gives constructive feedback, and recognizes employees for their hard work.

Tina also has the courage to set aggressive goals for the organization. Rather than the industry standard for answer times, the Weld 911 Center strives to answer 95% of calls within 5 seconds. That’s before the end of the first ring because seconds feel like an eternity for someone in crisis.

Because she is purpose driven and clearly and consistently articulates and demonstrates Weld’s mission, vision, and values, she can rally her staff to the cause. Tina is transparent. She taps into her staff’s strengths, values diverse perspectives, and works collaboratively with stakeholders at every level, fostering cooperation, solidarity, and shared purpose.

It's rare to find a leader at the executive level who views leadership as a privilege and who values relationships and connection. Tina is this rare individual.

Recently I had an opportunity to talk to Tina about what she loves most about her work and what being recognized as PSAPs’ Finest Director of the Year has meant to her.

What attracted you to a career in public safety communications?
Tina: I started as a dispatcher/call taker in 2011. I wanted to make a difference in critical moments and serve my community. I wanted to make an impact in moments that really counted. As I moved through leadership positions, that just transitioned to serving those who serve. It’s my mission to make sure that my 911 professionals have the tools, training, and support they need to excel in their roles.

What is your most memorable career experience?
Tina: It’s so difficult to just pick one. But if I have to I would say our 2013 flood was the most memorable. It was catastrophic and chaotic, but our team pulled together and served our community during a scary time. We worked around the clock to make sure that we were there when we were needed.

What do you most love about what you do?
Tina: What I love most about my job is knowing that every day we have the opportunity and honor to make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s providing support during a crisis or ensuring the safety of our community, it’s the impact that fills my cup.

What advice would you have for others thinking about a similar career path?
Tina: Dive in. Get your hands dirty. Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions and have hard conversations. Our mission is big and so is the dedication required. But it is so worth it. What this industry will give back to you will change your life.

What does it mean to be recognized with a PSAP’s Finest Award?
Tina: It’s a real honor to be recognized. It solidifies for me that our people and Weld County are truly the best around.

About the PSAPs’ Finest Awards

PSAPs’ Finest is a recognition program for emergency communications center (ECC) professionals. The awards recognize individual and team standouts annually in the following categories: Lifetime Achievement, Above & Beyond, Communications Center Director/Manager, Line Supervisor, Technician, Trainer, Telecommunicator, Innovator, and PSAP of the Year. In 2025, PSAPs’ Finest will celebrate its twentieth year. Know someone you’d like to nominate for a PSAPs’ Finest award? Nominations for the 2025 PSAPs’ Finest Awards are now open. For more information please visit the PSAPs' Finest website or email us at PSInfo@NICE.com.

About the Author

Linda Haelsen

Linda Haelsen is a marketing professional with experience spanning two decades. Linda joined NICE Systems following the acquisition of Dictaphone where Linda had served as Marketing Communications Director. Prior to Dictaphone, Linda served in key marketing positions at Netkey, a kiosk software company, and MC3, a division of Dun & Bradstreet. Linda has published articles in many trade journals on topics spanning physical security, public safety and customer relationship management. She has traveled extensively throughout Africa and Europe and worked abroad in the UK. She earned her MBA from Northeastern University in Boston where she took part in a study abroad program at the École supérieure de commerce de Reims. She holds an undergraduate degree in English (with a concentration in writing) from Rhode Island College.

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