Employee Spotlight: D. Jeremy DeMar, Intrado Senior Manager of Government Affairs

A Career Sparked by Passion

Jeremy DeMar’s journey in public safety spans over 30 years, with roots tracing back to his senior year of high school. During this time, he joined a fire and EMS Explorer Post—a decision that would shape the trajectory of his life and career.

"From the moment I joined, I fell in love with fire and emergency medical services. Public safety had me hooked."

What began as an extracurricular activity turned into a lifelong passion for serving communities and making a tangible difference. Today, Jeremy leads initiatives that address the evolving challenges faced by public safety professionals, proving that his early spark of interest has ignited a sustained commitment to innovation and progress.

Modernizing 911 Training

A significant focus of Jeremy’s work revolves around modernizing training for 911 services. Recognizing that traditional methods are no longer sufficient for today’s tech-savvy recruits, Jeremy has been at the forefront of integrating advanced tools and techniques into training programs.

"The team members coming in today are more tech-savvy than ever. They expect to leverage technology in meaningful ways, and we need to adapt to meet those expectations."

Jeremy’s vision includes using extended reality (XR) and artificial intelligence (AI) to create immersive training environments. These tools allow recruits to experience realistic simulations, preparing them to manage critical situations effectively.

"Imagine a virtual environment where recruits can fully experience what it’s like to handle a 911 call or manage a critical situation. That kind of immersive training could make all the difference."

By updating these methodologies, Jeremy aims to not only enhance preparedness but also attract more candidates to the field by showcasing the compelling opportunities and tools available.

Sharing Expertise Through Webinars

Beyond his direct contributions, Jeremy shares his insights through webinars hosted by Intrado. These sessions, such as the "Share.Solve.Evolve." series, cover diverse topics, from public safety technology to leadership strategies and the future of 911 services. His approachable style and deep knowledge make these webinars invaluable for both aspiring and seasoned professionals..

Advice for Aspiring Professionals

Jeremy’s advice for those considering a career in 911 services is rooted in his extensive experience:

• Get a Taste of the Role: "Do a sit-along with a dispatcher. Listen to the calls, see how they handle the pressure, and get a feel for the environment."
• Be Open to Structure: "The 911 field requires discipline and adaptability, especially for those coming in without prior experience in the military or public safety. It's a unique environment, and understanding that upfront is important."

These practical steps help potential recruits decide if the field aligns with their skills and aspirations.

Life Beyond Public Safety

Outside of his professional commitments, Jeremy values balance and joy in his personal life. With his children now grown, he and his wife have embraced travel, with plans to visit Manhattan to experience its holiday lights—a long-time dream.

Jeremy’s love for classic cars is another passion. His prized possession is a 1986 Monte Carlo SS with T-Tops, all original and boasting only 11,000 miles. He’s also eyeing a candy apple red 1988 IROC-Z with a six-speed transmission, adding to his collection of dream rides.

"Life is about finding balance. For me, that means enjoying time with my wife, traveling, and indulging in the things that make me happy—like my classic car and those playful pups."

Meet the Mutts

Jeremy’s life is also enriched by his two rescue dogs, Duffy, a Black Lab, and Dixie, a Tan Black Mouth Cur. Both pups were rescued from Arkansas and have quickly become cherished members of his family.

Looking Ahead

Jeremy’s career exemplifies the power of innovation and dedication in driving meaningful change. By embracing new technologies and modern practices, he is not only enhancing the effectiveness of 911 services today but also ensuring they are well-equipped for the future.

"We owe it to the communities we serve to keep evolving. That means adopting new tools, revisiting old practices, and always looking for ways to do better."

Jeremy DeMar’s leadership stands as a testament to the impact that passion and forward-thinking can have on public safety. Whether reshaping training, leading webinars, or mentoring aspiring professionals, he continues to inspire progress in every aspect of his work.