News release
From trainee to training supervisor: One dispatcher's career journey through the RCMP
October 22, 2026
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British Columbia, British Columbia
From: British Columbia RCMP
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It’s safe to say Tammy Bouwman’s career with the RCMP had an unconventional start. In 2006, just weeks after the birth of her son, she embarked on a new career path, beginning training as a telecommunications operator with the North District Operational Communications Centre (OCC) in Prince George.
“My son was just six weeks old when I started my training in Chilliwack. So I was taking classes by day, studying, and breastfeeding in between,” she laughs. “The timing and situation may have been unique as we were starting our family, but it felt like a long-term career path that was going to be a good fit for me.”
At the time, Bouwman couldn't have known that her leap of faith and leaving her previous role in banking would launch a 20-years-and-counting career spanning northern British Columbia, the Yukon and the Fraser Valley, eventually bringing her back to North District as an experienced mentor helping train the next generation of telecommunications operators.
Pursuing opportunity within the RCMP
After getting hired and completing her initial course back in 2006, Bouwman’s career started with answering emergency and non-emergency calls from across North District while working closely with a trainer. As she gained more experience and hours behind the headset, she received further training in RCMP dispatching, which involves directing police officers to respond to specific locations and events, serving as a valuable lifeline for officers.
“As time went on, I found that there's a real connection. You develop relationships, camaraderie, with the people that you're working with, not only with the people in the room with you, but the police officers on the road,” Bouwman said.
Bouwman’s instinct that the job would be a good fit for her turned out to be correct.
“I liked the high pressure, the multitasking, I’ve always been a person who does well under deadlines,” she said. “In this role you directly contribute to the safety of the public and police officers. There’s nothing better than when a file occurs and you are able to make an impact for someone when they need it most.”
In 2008, she and her family, including her husband who also works in the OCC, made the move to Chilliwack.
Over eight years in the Fraser Valley, Bouwman advanced through several roles, becoming a field coach, supervisor, shift supervisor and trained facilitator at the RCMP’s Pacific Region Training Centre.
In 2016, the family pursued another exciting opportunity within the RCMP, deciding to see more of Canada by accepting isolated post positions in Whitehorse, Yukon.
“We had no connections up there, no family, but we thought it would be a great opportunity to see rural policing and have a different experience,” she said. “The pace was slower, it was a completely different dynamic for work, which I really enjoyed.”
After four years, the family ultimately came full circle, moving back to Prince George to be closer to loved ones. Today, Bouwman is in what she considers her dream job as Training Supervisor for the North District OCC.
In her role, she works closely with new employees, as well as overseeing recruiting efforts.
“It’s my heart’s calling,” she said. “We have a really extensive training program that’s one of the best I’ve seen in terms of thoroughness, support available, and helping employees gain confidence and ultimately succeed in their careers.”
Along the way, Bouwman’s dedication to public safety has earned her several honours, including receiving an RCMP Award of Excellence in relation to an Amber Alert file, being named Telecommunications Operator of the Year in Whitehorse, and most recently, being awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
Taking the next step
For those considering a career in police dispatch, Bouwman’s journey is an example of how far the role can take you. From answering emergency calls in Prince George to supervising and training employees across BC and the Yukon, she’s experienced firsthand the opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the RCMP.
“I’ve been very lucky in my career in that I’ve moved around, experienced different communities and worked with so many great partners and police officers,” she said. “It’s a really great career. There’s a pension, benefits, flexibility, and opportunities for travel and overtime for special assignments.”
For OCC staff, those opportunities can include supporting national and international initiatives, such as the recent G7 Summit, or involvement in dynamic operational events such as wildfire response.
Bouwman says there’s no single background or career path that prepares someone to become a 9-1-1 Police Dispatcher, but teamwork is an important part of the job. Applicants bring a wide range of experiences, from those just starting their careers to people looking for a change after years in other industries.
The OCC puts an emphasis on providing mentorship, professional development, and learning opportunities, as well as fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace for all employees.
North District OCC is actively hiring and is holding several upcoming recruiting events both in person and online:
- Thursday, October 29, 2026 - Virtual
- Tuesday, November 3, 2026 – University of Northern BC
- Saturday, November 7, 2026 – North District Office
- Saturday, December 5, 2026 – North District Office
Twenty years after she started her own training, Bouwman has these words for those who might be considering a similar career path.
“You don't need to come in knowing everything. We teach you the skills you need and support you every step of the way. If you're willing to learn and challenge yourself, it's a career that can take you in directions you never expected.”
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British Columbia RCMP
778-290-2929