Stephanie Bishop, APIO, CPC-PIO
Stephanie Bishop, APIO, CPC-PIO, is a highly accomplished crisis and strategic communications professional with more than 25 years of experience spanning public relations, law enforcement, emergency management, and fire service operations. Currently serving with the California Interagency Incident Management Team – Region 5 as a National Public Information Officer and with the Los Angeles Fire Department as Public Information Director, she leads complex communication efforts during high-profile incidents, ensuring accurate, timely, and coordinated messaging during emergencies.
A retired law enforcement spokesperson and accomplished voiceover professional, Stephanie brings a rare combination of operational expertise and strategic communications leadership. She holds a Master of Science in Communications with a concentration in Strategic and Crisis Communications Public Relations, along with a Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communications Management from Purdue University. Her work reflects a deep understanding of crisis response, public trust, and multi-agency coordination.
Stephanie is among a select group of only 76 professionals nationwide to earn the Certified Public Information Officer (CPC-PIO) designation, recognizing excellence in leadership, professional development, and technical expertise within the field. Her career also includes federal investigative work, emergency operations leadership, and extensive experience in legislative and intergovernmental affairs—skills that enable her to effectively navigate complex stakeholder environments.
Beyond her professional roles, Stephanie is a dedicated educator and community advocate. She has developed and led programs focused on cyberbullying prevention, internet safety, and child protection, and is the author of the educational book It’s Okay to Tell. She has served on the Board of Directors for the Alaska Emergency Management Association and continues to mentor emerging professionals. Through her work, she remains deeply committed to advancing public safety, strengthening community trust, and empowering others through clear, compassionate communication.
• 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 asa 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 90012