Meet Erin Cooper

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin Cooper and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erin, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Since my diagnosis with stage 4 breast cancer, my perspective on work-life balance has transformed significantly. It prompted me to reeavaluate my priorities, leading me to enter the Mrs. California United States pageant in 2024, where I won the title and launched my nonprofit, Queens Against Cancer, to raise funds and awareness for those affected by this disease. My role as a 911 dispatch manager provides the flexibility I need to pursue a career I love while also spending quality time with my family and taking care of my health. This journey has taught me that true balance is about being intentional with my time and making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart is my resilience and unwavering commitment to my work, even in the face of personal challenges. I take great pride in my career journey, which began when I became a 9-1-1 Dispatcher at just 19 years old. Four years later, I earned the title of the youngest dispatch supervisor in my department, surpassing colleagues who had been there much longer. Transitioning to manager of the 9-1-1 in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges, especially as I was also navigating my diagnosis of stage 4 breast cancer. Throughout this time, I made it my mission to be a steady and supportive leader for my staff, ensuring that my personal struggles did not affect my dedication to our work. Over the past five years as a manager, I’ve faced unpredictable staffing challenges within the police department, and being a young woman in a predominantly male field has brought its own set of difficulties. I choose to focus on my goals and lead with integrity and compassion, demonstrating that persistence and dedication can overcome even the toughest obstacles.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my favorite spots in Southern California is Westlake Village. If I were to plan an itinerary, I would start the day at Stonehaus for a delightful breakfast and a great cup of coffee while enjoying the outdoor vineyard scenery. After that, we would spend the day indulging in relaxation at Spa Relais, enjoying all the wonderful treatments, food, and amenities they offer. To wrap up the day, we would head out for dinner at Basta on Thousand Oaks Blvd, savoring delicious food and wine in a lovely atmosphere.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give a heartfelt shoutout to my family and close friends, who have been my unwavering support throughout all my journeys. Their encouragement and love have been instrumental in giving me the confidence to pursue my dreams, especially during some of the most challenging times in my life. I truly couldn’t have come this far without their belief in me.

Website: https://www.queensagainstcancer.com

Instagram: erincoopergram & queensagainstcancer.inc

Image Credits
Code Creatives