Excerpts from the ChicagoTribune.com:
A group of visitors from Indiana recently made a stop at the Northeastern Illinois Public Safety Training Academy (NIPSTA) in Glenview, a 21-acre facility dedicated to training police officers and firefighters. The academy is managed by an intergovernmental organization that includes municipalities, fire protection districts, and other local agencies.
Jill Ramaker, who became executive director two years ago, had a clear vision for NIPSTA: to transform it into a full-service training center capable of handling all aspects of disaster response. When she first arrived, about 70% of the academy’s programs focused on fire service training. But her goal was much broader—she wanted to bring together all types of public safety professionals to prepare for both small-scale and large-scale emergencies.
Within just a few years, NIPSTA has evolved into a comprehensive training hub covering disaster health care, law enforcement, public works, and more. One of Ramaker’s most notable achievements was the creation of the Center for Disaster and Emergency Medicine, which fills a critical gap in the training of emergency responders after they complete paramedic school.
"There was a real need for something that would challenge people to truly master their skills," Ramaker explained to the Indiana delegation. "We’re building a program that not only trains individuals but also encourages collaboration across different agencies."
The academy now brings together a wide range of professionals, from firefighters and police officers to public works crews and private industry representatives. This approach ensures that everyone involved in a disaster response can work effectively as a team.
NIPSTA’s membership includes nearly two dozen communities, such as Arlington Heights, Evanston, Skokie, and Deerfield. These towns collectively represent the diverse needs of the region and contribute to the academy’s mission.
The Indiana visitors were there to learn how they could develop a similar public safety training center in their own state. During their tour, they witnessed firsthand the advanced training available at NIPSTA. They saw firefighters practicing vehicle extrication, watched a new mobile ambulance in action, and toured the Center for Disaster and Emergency Medicine.
Inside, they observed law enforcement officers using virtual reality simulations to train for high-stress scenarios, such as domestic disputes turning violent or school shootings. A driving simulator allowed trainees to practice navigating dangerous weather conditions and emergency situations.
Ramaker also brought in Tom Gaertner, a former fire chief, as deputy director. Together with two other staff members, they oversee over 450 instructors, many of whom are retired public safety professionals or active personnel working part-time in their respective fields.
“We're growing fast,†Ramaker said. “Our revenue is up 35% compared to last year, which shows we're on the right track.â€
Looking ahead, NIPSTA plans to launch a new Center for Crisis Leadership next year. The academy is also expanding its partnerships with Chicago, local schools, and private industry to ensure that every sector of society is prepared for modern-day emergencies.
“When someone reaches out to us, we always say yes,†Ramaker emphasized. “If we don’t have a program, we create one. We believe that no part of our society should be left unprepared for the challenges of today’s world.â€
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