Ray McCarty brings more than two decades of institutional knowledge to his role as a 9-1-1 GIS Technician at the Ark-Tex Council of Governments, offering a level of experience that directly supports the region’s emergency response systems. He first joined the agency in February 1999 as a Rural Addressing Coordinator for the 9-1-1 Department, later returning as a GIS Technician after a brief leave. Over the years, he has remained deeply involved in the field, including active participation in the National Emergency Number Association, where he has presented at both national and state conferences and continues to engage at industry events.
In his current role, McCarty focuses on maintaining and improving address and GIS data, work that requires both precision and problem-solving. His day often includes updating records and assisting with complex deployment issues that require specialized knowledge. “I enjoy solving the complex problems and being able to provide historical information about the program that only comes from my years with the agency,” he said.
That depth of experience also shapes how he approaches challenges, often serving as a resource for colleagues navigating technical or data-related questions. His long tenure provides continuity in a field where accuracy and reliability are critical.
Outside of work, McCarty enjoys travel and memorable experiences, including a trip to Heidelberg, Germany, where he watched a reenactment of the Burning of the Castle. He also appreciates a good movie quote, citing “Welcome to the party, pal” from Die Hard as a favorite.
After more than 25 years with the organization, McCarty continues to play a key role in supporting the systems that help keep communities connected to emergency services.