CONCORD, N.H. – The New Hampshire Department of Safety's Division of Emergency Services and Communications (DESC), commonly known as New Hampshire 911, is proud to announce that Telecommunications Supervisor Abigail Talbot has been named the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International's 2026 Line Supervisor of the Year, recognizing her as one of the top public safety communications supervisors in the profession.
The APCO International Emergency Communications Center Awards recognize communications professionals from across the United States and beyond who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professionalism and service to the public safety communications profession. According to APCO International, recipients represent the highest levels of professional conduct and outstanding performance in the line of duty.
As a Telecommunications Supervisor at New Hampshire 911, Talbot manages telecommunicators at a high-pressure 911 communications center. Her role encompasses everything from staffing and employee well-being to ensuring compliance with protocols and making policy recommendations.
"This recognition is a testament to Abby's unwavering commitment to both the people she serves and the team she leads," said DESC Director Mark Doyle. "She exemplifies the professionalism, compassion and leadership that define New Hampshire 911. We are incredibly proud to see her recognized on the international stage."
Talbot's selection comes one year after being named the Atlantic Chapter of APCO's 2025 Supervisor of the Year, an honor recognizing outstanding leadership among public safety communications professionals across New England. She has also been recognized by the New Hampshire Emergency Dispatchers Association as Supervisor of the Year and received national recognition for establishing the Department of Safety's first comfort dog program to support the wellness of 911 telecommunicators.
"Abby leads by example every day," said DESC Chief of Operations Deb Bray. "She has earned the respect of her peers through her dedication to excellence, her willingness to support others and her genuine commitment to the well-being of her team. This award reflects the impact she has on our organization and the profession as a whole."
Talbot received the award during APCO's Annual Conference & Expo in San Antonio, Texas.
