The work done by emergency communications officers continues to become more complex. The minimum training standards should be changed (increased) to reflect the required knowledge, skills and abilities, particularly in the area of technological competencies, working with the mentally ill, and effectively managing stress. Continuing education requirements should also be established to ensure these competencies are maintained, as is already done with law enforcement, fire and EMS. This would require providing support to regional academies to ensure adequate opportunities for recertification classes exist. Currently, professioanl development courses are few and far between for emergency communication officers.