Gaston County Emergency Medical Services is celebrating one of their own today after Training Major Jessica Ross achieved a significant professional milestone. According to a news release, Ross has completed a robust process to earn the title of "Chief Training Officer" (CTO), a distinguished designation given by the Commission on Professional Credentialing® (CPC®). With this accomplishment, Ross joins an elite group of only 322 CTOs worldwide.
The CPC panel convened on Monday and decided to formally grant this accolade to Ross. The credentials are not bestowed lightly; candidates must to thoroughly demonstrate their knowledge and skill across seven areas, ranging from professional contributions to community involvement. The extensive peer review model used by the CPC is designed to rigorously assess the suitability of each aspiring CTO.
Ross' new title reflects her deep commitment to the fire and emergency services sector. It is not only a recognition of her past achievements but also of her pledged devotion to future professional development. The CTO designation has a shelf life of three years, after which those who hold it are required to prove they have continued to grow in their field in order to maintain the designation, as per the county's announcement.
The Commission on Professional Credentialing is an arm of the Center for Public Safety Excellence®, Inc. (CPSE®), a body that sets the bar for excellence in the public safety industry. In order to retain the CTO designation, Ross will have to consistently showcase advancement in the facets of professional development, contributions, association involvement, and community engagement. Moreover, she is expected to strictly adhere to a code of professional conduct in order to uphold the standards set by the commission.
For those interested in learning more about the process and the stringent standards set by the CPC, additional information is available on CPSE's website.
