The Case for Professionalizing the PIO Role

For too long, the Public Information Officer role has been treated as optional — a side duty assigned to whoever had a knack for writing or was willing to stand in front of cameras. The result? Inconsistent messaging, preventable mistakes, and a lack of recognition for the people doing the work.

If 2025 has shown us anything, it’s that the role of the PIO is no longer negotiable. Whether in law enforcement, fire, EMS, higher education, or local government, professional communications are as essential as operational response.