Stephanie Bishop, APIO, CPC-PIO
Stephanie Bishop, APIO, CPC-PIO, is a distinguished Crisis and Strategic Communications professional with over 25 years of combined experience in public relations, law enforcement, emergency management, and fire response. Currently serving with the California Interagency Incident Management Team – Region 5 as a National Public Information Officer, Stephanie has been dispatched to incidents nationwide, where she develops communication strategies, manages information dissemination, and ensures accurate public messaging during complex emergencies. A retired police officer spokesperson and accomplished voiceover talent, she brings a unique blend of tactical expertise and strategic insight to every engagement.
Stephanie holds a Master of Science in Communications with a focus on Strategic and Crisis Communications Public Relations, along with a Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communications Management from Purdue University. She has been recognized as one of only 76 Public Information Officers to earn the prestigious CPC-PIO designation, reflecting her excellence in professional development, technical competence, community involvement, and leadership in the field of public information. Her career also includes federal investigative work, emergency operations leadership, and extensive experience in legislative affairs, all of which have honed her ability to collaborate effectively across agencies and stakeholders.
Beyond her professional achievements, Stephanie is a dedicated educator and community advocate. She has created and led programs on cyberbullying, internet safety, and child sexual abuse prevention, and authored the educational book It’s Okay to Tell. She has served on the Board of Directors for the Alaska Emergency Management Association and volunteered with local crisis centers, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to public service and community well-being. Recognized for her mentorship, teaching, and public speaking, Stephanie continues to advance the field of crisis communications while empowering others to navigate challenging situations with confidence and clarity.
• Commission on Professional Credentialing - Public Information Officer
• Purdue University - M.S.
• Emergency Manager of the Year
• Stronghold Freedom Foundation
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a commitment to service and a willingness to embrace every challenge as an opportunity to grow. My career in public service has been an evolving journey rather than a single role. I began as a college firefighter in 1998, which laid the foundation for a path defined by courage and purpose. From there, I spent 18 years in law enforcement, dedicating myself to the critical work of combating human trafficking. While I retired from the badge, my mission to serve never wavered.
In 2019, I transitioned into public relations, using communication as a powerful tool to continue making a positive impact. This January, I step into a new chapter as the Public Information Director for the Los Angeles Fire Department—a true homecoming. Throughout my career, my greatest achievement isn’t a single award, but the meaningful difference I’ve made in the communities I serve. I find the most fulfillment in bringing calm and clarity to chaotic situations and helping people navigate challenges.
I believe my success comes directly from putting the community first and approaching every role with both a learner’s curiosity and a protector’s spirit. My journey has taught me that resilience, adaptability, and a dedication to service are the keys to creating a lasting impact.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
To young women entering this field, I would say: don’t give up. Commit to continuous learning—I learn from everyone every day, even from those I mentor. Pay attention to the strengths of the people you work with, build your skills and knowledge, and, above all, cultivate the ability to adapt in any situation.
Locations
City of Los Angeles Fire Department
Los Angeles, CA 79407