Speakers 2026
April Heinze, VP of 9-1-1 Operations and Standards, NENA (National Emergency Number Association)
April Heinze is a nationally recognized leader in emergency communications, serving as Vice President of 9-1-1 Operations and Standards for NENA: The 9-1-1 Association. In this role, she provides strategic leadership for NENA’s 9-1-1 operational initiatives and directs the standards development team in support of the NENA Development Group (NDG). As NENA’s subject-matter expert on 9-1-1 operations, April advances the organization’s mission by ensuring operational perspectives are represented in standards and policy development and through industry collaboration.
April’s responsibilities include educating, advising, and advocating for Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) and Emergency Communication Center (ECC) operations, while guiding the creation of standards and best practices that comply with ANSI requirements. She represents NENA in federal and industry workgroups, task forces, and standards development organizations, building collaborative relationships that strengthen the effectiveness and efficiency of 9-1-1 systems worldwide. Her leadership extends to recruiting and engaging members across public and private sectors, fostering alignment between PSAP requirements and product development, and elevating NENA’s role as a trusted voice in public safety communications.
Prior to joining NENA, April dedicated nearly 25 years to Eaton County Central Dispatch in Michigan, where she began as a Public Safety Telecommunicator and rose to Director. Her tenure was marked by operational excellence, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to public safety. In 2016, she transitioned to the private sector, joining a Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) provider to focus on industry affairs and advocacy. During her three years in that role, she played a pivotal role in shaping policies and practices that supported the evolution of NG9-1-1 systems, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
April’s extensive experience—spanning PSAP operations, standards development, and industry advocacy—positions her as an influential figure in the 9-1-1 community. Her dedication to advancing emergency response capabilities, improving operational practices, and supporting the needs of 9-1-1 professionals underscores her role as a driving force in shaping the future of emergency communications.