Meet Victoria Ogaga: A seasoned Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) professional with experience as a GIS (Geographical Information Systems) manager and E911 coordinator. Raised in a close-knit community, she’s driven by a strong sense of duty and compassion. Her passion for public safety stems from a personal commitment to be a lifeline in critical moments.
The Power of Knowing Your 'Why': A Conversation with Public Safety Professional Victoria Ogaga
In public safety, staying grounded in your purpose is crucial, especially under pressure. Alexis Carter recently spoke with Victoria Ogaga, a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) professional, to explore how her background and experiences have shaped her passion for serving others.
Growing Up in a Community-Focused Environment
Victoria's journey began in a rural community where "it takes a village" was a way of life. "You don’t just watch everything happen and act like it has nothing to do with you," she explained. This sense of responsibility led her to a career in 911 services, where she felt called to make a difference.
From Rural Roots to Intrado
Victoria has held various roles in public safety, from EMT to emergency management. Her move to Intrado was influenced by a former colleague, Kim Paxton, and a deeply personal experience in 2016. When her grandmother suffered a stroke, Victoria found herself on the other side of a 911 call. Despite her experience, she felt helpless: "All I could think was, 'Please don’t let my grandma die.'" That moment became her 'why'—fueling her drive to improve emergency services.
The Daily Challenges of Public Safety
Victoria acknowledges that PSAP work comes with unique challenges. "You can't always do everything you want, even for the right reasons," she noted, citing budget and external constraints. Despite setbacks, she stresses persistence: "You have to stay true to your purpose to avoid burnout."
One incident that left a mark on her was a call involving a woman trapped in a retention pond. "She knew she was going to die and told the call taker to relay messages to her family," Victoria recalled. This experience reinforced the critical need for accurate location technology in emergency services.
Finding Fulfillment Amidst the Struggles
Despite the hardships, Victoria finds fulfillment in knowing PSAP work makes a difference. "When you share someone's worst day, they remember," she said. "People come back to say, 'You saved my life.'" For her, it’s not about titles, but the impact on those they serve. Staying connected with law enforcement and other emergency professionals keeps her grounded and motivated to push for advancements in public safety.
Advice for Aspiring Public Safety Professionals
Victoria’s advice is clear: "Know your 'why.'" A strong sense of purpose helps anchor you during tough times. "You might not get the recognition you want, but if you're doing what you truly believe in, it won’t knock you down."
Conclusion
Victoria's story underscores the power of purpose in public safety. Her journey from a rural community to her role at Intrado highlights the importance of knowing your 'why' and letting it guide you through both challenges and successes. For Victoria, it's about more than answering calls; it's about being a lifeline when seconds matter.
