By: Mat Cloak
The Parsons Advocate
Beverly Cantrell was approved by the County Commission as the new Deputy Director of the Office of 911 for Tucker County. Cantrell has worked in the 911 Office for five and a half years.
Before her promotion to Deputy Director, Cantrell worked as a 911 telecommunicator. “I’ve been in the medical field since I graduated high school,” Cantrell said. She worked as an EMT in Tucker County as well as in an operating room at Davis Medical Center. She recently completed an accounting degree from Davis and Elkins College.
Cantrell stated her main goal is to be there for the residents, tourists, and service personnel of Tucker County. “I mainly want to take care of the citizens and tourists that come into Tucker County,” Cantrell said. “And always do no harm.”
Her current position entails duties assigned from the director, updating protocols and procedures, and apportioning adequate staffing. The office employs eight full time and five part time dispatchers. “I want a good working relationship with the employees at the 911 center,” Cantrell said.
Cantrell’s supervisor, Director Brett Ware, commented on her willingness and cooperation with others. “She’s very personable, and receives a great deal of respect from her colleagues,” Ware said. “She’s very diligent to handle any issues and to see that they are resolved.
Ware believes Cantrell will be an invaluable asset to the community due to her extensive experience in emergency services. “From the day she graduated high school, she’s been practicing emergency services in Tucker County. It’s evident she’s good with the county residents,” Ware said.
Ware stated that the atmosphere of the office dictates strong leadership, especially in the winter. “The snowfall sometimes promotes chaos, and her willingness and readiness to jump in and help is invaluable,” Ware said.
The Commission voted Ware in as the director in July, which is the same application process Cantrell went through to obtain her position. Through internal applications, Ware gathered the information for the Commissioners. There were no outside applications for the deputy director position.
The position was vacated in April. Judy Long was the previous deputy director.
