I strongly feel the 40 hour training period is no longer adequate, the job has changed immensely and the training period nor the content are sufficient. Current training is heavily law enforcement centric, and for agencies that provide services to multiple disciplines, its imperative that EMS, and fire training be included as an option. The Offices of Emergency Medical Services and Fire Programs should have a vested interest in the development of such programs as they have been neglected for far too long.  In addition basic training of GIS, two way radio and computer systems and we move to next generation will make a much more rounded and confident communications officer.  Once a well trained and confident communications officer is established it is imperative that we continue their education as technologies change, as well as to re-enforce quality habits and performance.