Ventura County honors dispatchers Maribel Cobian and Blake Oxford for outstanding service

During the recent Board of Supervisors meeting in Ventura County, a significant focus was placed on honoring the vital contributions of public safety telecommunications professionals. The meeting, held on April 8, 2025, featured heartfelt acknowledgments of the dedicated dispatchers who play a crucial role in emergency response and community safety.

Captain Steve Michalek of the Ventura County Sheriff's Office opened the segment by expressing gratitude for the recognition of dispatchers, emphasizing their essential role in supporting first responders and saving lives. He introduced Erin Brockus, the assistant manager of the dispatch center, who presented the Dispatcher of the Year award to Maribel Cobian. Cobian, who has been with the sheriff's office since 2011, was celebrated for her exemplary service, particularly in high-pressure situations. Notably, she successfully managed critical calls, including one involving a suicidal individual, demonstrating her quick thinking and dedication to public safety.

Following this, Battalion Chief Guillermo de la Rosa from the Ventura County Fire Department recognized Blake Oxford as the Dispatcher of the Year for his outstanding contributions. De la Rosa highlighted Oxford's professionalism, skill, and commitment to mentoring new dispatchers. With nearly 20 years of experience, Oxford has been instrumental in training and improving the performance of his peers, showcasing a passion for continuous learning and community service.

The recognition of Cobian and Oxford underscores the importance of dispatchers in the emergency response framework, illustrating how their actions can have life-saving impacts. The meeting served not only to honor these individuals but also to raise awareness about the critical role of telecommunications in public safety.

As the meeting progressed, the board moved on to other agenda items, but the acknowledgment of the dispatchers left a lasting impression on attendees, reinforcing the community's appreciation for those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure safety and support during emergencies.