Welcome to Florida’s Inaugural Training in Emergency Management, Leading from the Trenches! Please register below. Once you complete your registration you will receive course confirmation, room block information, and next steps. Be sure to check your email for updates on additional courses and speakers.

Code of Conduct

Please review the Florida Training in Emergency Management Code of Conduct here.

Course Registration

Below you will find the course descriptions and the option to register yourself for each course. 

Click here to view the schedule grid as a PDF.

Some courses have a separate registration link, which will be shared in the description.

For all other courses, you can register yourself by clicking the checkbox below the course description. 

If a course is at capacity, you can add yourself to a waitlist for the course.

After submitting your registration, you will have the option to edit your selections later by following a link that will be emailed to you.

FTEM Leadership Talks

A series of leadership talks on the following topics:

• Authenticity
• Open-Mindedness
• Effective communicator/active listening
• Positive/Motivating/Empowering
• Adaptability/Flexibility
• Visionary/Thinking Big
• Respectful
• Humility/Accountability
• Leading with Passion
• Integrity/Respect
• Ability to connect and collaborate
• Empathy
• Always diving deep and learning

 

FTEM Leadership Talks - Tuesday, June 11

 

8:30am-9:30am: Brock Long, Executive Director, Hagerty Consulting (former FEMA Administrator)

10:00am-11:30am: Joe Saviak, Ph.D., J.D., M.A., M.S., Saviak Consulting

1:30pm-2:15pm: Sean Pittman, Senior Partner and Chief Executive Officer, Pittman Law

2:30pm-3:00pm: Blaze Schoembs, Merit Emergency Services Specialist

3:15pm-4:15pm: Anthony Monaco, National Emergency Management Practice Leader, State & Local, KPMG US

4:30pm-5:00pm: Kevin Guthrie, Executive Director, Florida Division of Emergency Management

FTEM Leadership Talks - Wednesday, June 12

8:00am-9:00am: John Brogan, Federal Coordinating Officer, Region IV FEMA

9:30-10:00am: Shawn Hamilton, Secretary, Department of Environmental Protection

10:15am-11:00am: Brittany Castillo, Chief Executive Officer, AshBritt

11:00am-11:45am: Major General Carruthers, Assistant Adjutant General, Florida National Guard

1:30pm-2:30pm: Shevaun Harris, Secretary, Department of Children and Families

3:00pm-4:00pm: Craig Fugate, former FEMA administrator

FTEM Leadership Talks - Thursday, June 13

8:00am-10:00am: Women in Leadership Panel

• Erica Bornemann, Vice President Planning and Risk Reduction, ACDC (former Vermont Division of Emergency Management Director)
• Gracia Szczech, Senior Advisor, McChrystal Group (former Region IV FEMA administrator)
• Brittany Castillo, Chief Executive Officer, AshBritt
• Anne Bink, Associate Administrator, Office of Response and Recovery, FEMA

1:30pm-2:15pm: Monica Russell, Account Relationship Director, KPMG

3:00pm-4:00pm: State Senator Corey Simon, former NFL football player

 

FTEM Leadership Talks - Friday, June 14

8:00am-10:00am: Former Emergency Managers Panel

• Erica Bornemann, Vice President Planning and Risk Reduction, ACDC (former Director, Vermont Division of Emergency Management)
• Andrew Phelps, Chief Operating Officer, ACDC (former Director, Oregon Emergency Management)
• Casey Tingle, Senior Vice President, Plexus Group (former Director, Louisiana Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness)
• Mike Sprayberry, Senior Advisor for Emergency Management, Hagerty Consulting (former Director, North Carolina Division of Emergency Management)

11:00am-12:00pm: Kevin Guthrie, Executive Director, Florida Division of Emergency Management (Closing Session)

 

EOC Management Skills

Duration: 2 hrs (Mon 6/10 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Description: This workshop will focus on the key skills needed to manage various EOC personnel while tracking resources during no-notice events. It will also discuss no-notice events and how to manage staff. This high-level overview will focus on enhancing customer service, communication, and conflict resolution skills during a high-stress activation.

Objectives:

• Educate emergency management staff on management skills during an activation
• Educate emergency management staff on the SERT Liaisons, IMTs, and the different personnel that can be requested to assist, including EMAC
• Demonstrate the acquired management skills

Instructors: Sandra Tapfumaneyi (Sarasota EM), Frankie Lumm (Bay County)

Prerequisites: None

Joint Planners Course

Duration: 2 Days (Tue 6/11 & Wed 6/12 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Description: This 2-day Course developed by the National Guard Bureau (NGB) and tailored to focus on developing skills and abilities to coordinate and develop strategic plans, policies, and initiatives related to State, regional, and/or local threats.  Students will also acquire an understanding of the role strategic plans have to influence cooperation and inter-governmental relations.  Provide the tools and techniques to planners who are responsible to develop, review, analyze plans, and policies. 

Instructor: Stephen Tucker Strategic Plans and Training Officer

Prerequisites: none

AWR-209: Working with the Media: A Course for Rural First Responders

Duration: 1 Day (Tue 6/11 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Description: AWR 209 Working with the Media: A Course for Rural First Responders is designed to provide emergency responders with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to interact with the media and perform public information functions in preparation for and during incidents. Many agencies from small and rural communities do not have a full- or part-time public information officer (PIO) on staff and responders often assume this responsibility without formal training and practice. The intent of this course is to prepare responders for interacting with the media when required, whether it be roadside at the scene of an incident or for conveying directions to the public in a crisis situation.

Objectives: Recognize the role of the media and possess the knowledge and skills to work with them

Describe the skills and knowledge necessary to deal with the media at the scene of an emergency

Comprehend components of on-scene and planned off-scene interviews and have the skills necessary to provide them.

Describe the purpose of disaster public education and steps in developing and implementing public awareness campaigns.

Describe ways to make stories more interesting to the media and know when to best promote a story idea

identify elements of effective news releases and apply tips for developing and disseminating news releases to the media. 

Prerequisites: Separate Registration requiring FEMA ID https://ruraltraining.org/course/AWR-209/?scheduled=true&id=11320

Cybersecurity and Risk Management for Emergency Managers

Duration: 2 hrs (Tue 6/11 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM)

Description: Based on best practices and comprehensive toolkits built by Cyber Florida, Emergency Management leaders will receive guidance and resources to address cascading cyber incidents, events, and threats in their organizations. Additionally, attendees will be able to learn about the latest addition, ESF #20 on Cybersecurity, and how this needs to be incorporated into Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP) annexes.

Objectives: 

• Identify best practices from ESF 20: fundamentals and planning
• Identifying Emergency Management Risk Organizational Tolerance
• Provide risk reduction cyber resources for Emergency Managers
• Determine how to build Incident response plans, tabletop exercises (TTXs) and training

Instructors: The Florida Center for Cybersecurity- Cyber Florida

*Currently working with instructors to develop Cyber Florida workshop & Tabletop exercise 

Prerequisites: None

Substantial Damage Assessments and Post-Disaster Training for Emergency Managers

Duration: 4Hrs (Tue 6/11 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Description: Did you know that your local floodplain manager and building official have post-disaster responsibilities? This session will provide an understanding of the Substantial Damage requirements as it relates to permitting repairs post-disaster and the application of Section 1206 of the Disaster Recovery and Reform Act.

Objectives: Participants will learn the basics of floodplain management and substantial damage requirements post-disaster.

Instructor: Jillian Kraynak, Michael Burchette

Prerequisites: None

FL-603: Public Assistance Grants Program

Duration: 4hrs (Tue 6/11 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Description: This half-day course is intended for local officials and recovery staff who are assigned project management duties for the FEMA Public Assistance Grants Program. This is one of three courses that comprise the Public Assistance Course Series Certificate, along with FL-608 and FL-609. 

Objectives: Participants will learn an overview of FEMA’s Public Assistance Grants Program, including the latest guidance from FEMA. This course will provide details on each step in the grant management process from obligation through final reconciliation and closeout. 

Instructor: TBD 

Prerequisites: None

What To Expect When The World Descends

Duration: 2Hrs (Tue 6/11 10:15 AM - 12:00 PM)

Description: This workshop will focus on what counties and local governments should expect when State and Federal partners set up an Incident Command Post (ICP) within their jurisdiction. During this discussion, Executive Director Kevin Guthrie will reference Hurricane Michael, Surfside, and Hurricane Ian as main examples of when the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) activated an ICP within these jurisdictions.

Objectives: Define and provide an understanding of an Incident Command Post. 

Identify the key resources and support the SERT will provide local jurisdictions.

Establish better communication between local, state, and federal partners.

Instructors: Kevin Guthrie (FDEM)

Prerequisites: None

From Static To Dynamic Reporting

Duration: 2Hrs (Tue 6/11 1:00 PM - 2:45 PM)

Description: This workshop will provide emergency management personnel with clarification and insight into data and information collection, processing, and distribution. During an activation, the collection of information from the impacted areas, ESFs, branches, sections, and other partners is imperative to increase situational awareness to provide effective aid.  This planning and information collection-focused workshop will identify ways to transition from static reporting during an emergency to dynamic reporting to allow local officials to make better real-time decisions. This workshop will focus on identifying what information is beneficial and how the information is utilized.  

Objectives: Educate planning staff on what information is utilized during an activation 

Demonstrate how to transition information to reports utilized by local officials 

Instructors: Ryan Lock (Red Cross/NGO), Aaron Dienger (Private Sector), Allison Diego (ACDC), Colby Maxwell (FDEM/WEBEOC)

Prerequisites: None

Post Disaster LMS Toolkit

Duration: 2Hrs (Tue 6/11 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM)

Description: This workshop will walk through the steps an LMS Work Group should take following a disaster, including initial meeting considerations, project development and solicitation, and LMS grant application requirements.

Objectives: Participants will learn important steps an LMS Work Group should take following a disaster to ensure successful implementation of mitigation funding opportunities.

Instructor: Laura Dhuwe, Jantzen Heberle

Prerequisites: None

FL-608: Emergency Work Eligibility

Duration: 4 Hrs (Tue 6/11 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Description: This half-day course provides an overview of eligible costs and work under Categories A (Debris) and B (Emergency Protective Measures) of the FEMA Public Assistance Program. This is one of three courses that comprise the Public Assistance Course Series Certificate, along with FL-603 and FL-609. 

Objectives: At the end of this course, participants will be able to explain the purpose of emergency work and identify potentially eligible costs along with the documentation required to request reimbursement for these costs. 

Instructor: TBD 

Prerequisites: None

Florida Strong Through Partnership: FDEM'S Mutual Aid Program

Duration: 2Hrs (Tue 6/11 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Description: This workshop will allow participants to get an update on the DEMEs/Salesforce portal while identifying best practices to assist in the submission of required documents.

Objectives: Explain the Mutual Aid program and its importance during an emergency response. 

Discuss the past, present, and future of Florida’s Mutual Aid program and how its implementation contributed to reimbursements in a timely fashion. 

Review the Mutual Aid pathway, including applying for an incident, entering a cost estimate, attaching corresponding expense documentation, and the final submission process. 

Students will identify the necessary components for Mutual Aid reimbursements.  

Instructors: Chasity Brown (FDEM)

Prerequisites: None

El Niño vs La Niña: How Does It Impact Me?

Duration: 2Hrs (Tue 6/11 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Description: El Niño and La Niña represent opposite extremes in the El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO). While you have probably heard the terms El Niño and La Niña used to describe complex weather patterns, it can be difficult to know the difference between the two. These periodic weather patterns occur as a result of fluctuating ocean temperatures in one part of the world, which can lead to extreme weather in other parts of the world, such as the United States. In this workshop, we will explore the difference between the two weather patterns and their effects on regional weather patterns.

Objectives: Explain the differences in complex weather patterns.

Educate emergency management personnel on weather patterns' impact on their jurisdictions. 

Instructors:  Amy Godsey (FDEM) & Kelly Godsey (NWS)

Prerequisites: None

Tornado Awareness

Duration: 1 Day (Wed 6/12 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Description: Tornadoes can strike anywhere in the United States with little or no warning and are capable of causing significant loss of life and billions of dollars in damages.  It is important that every community be prepared to understand tornadoes and the associated dangers. This course will prepare participants to understand the basics of tornado science, weather forecasting, warning, and the fundamentals of tornado safety and preparedness. Multiple core capabilities will be addressed, with particular emphasis on "public information and warning" and "threats and hazard identification. Participants will be better able to implement safety measures for themselves, their families, and their organizations in preparation for tornado season.

Objectives: Educate emergency management personnel on implementing safety measures.

Prepare participants on understanding tornado safety, weather forecasting, warning, and preparedness. 

Instructors: TBD

Prerequisites: None

MGT-489 Managing Public, Private, and NGO Partnerships to Prepare for and Solve Critical Logistics and Supply Chain Challenges During Large-Scale Disasters

Duration: 2 days (Wed 6/12 & Thu 6/13 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Description: In times of disaster, even Supply Chains that were previously functioning can experience significant disruption, generating acute life-safety challenges and quickly turning a disaster into a catastrophe. This training provides a practical approach for participants to develop and incorporate collaborative public-private solutions into disaster preparedness planning for both the public and private sectors to ensure and support disaster resilience in the Supply Chain and address the Food, Water, and Sheltering lifelines.  

Objectives: Educate public, private, and NGO partners on how to prepare and manage logistics

Identify the challenges that arise during large-scale disasters and develop plans on how address issues 

Instructors: TEEX

Prerequisites:  Separate Registration: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=2RNYUX1x3UWeypqhnAnW-RgUAmetXJNMmVgy1AqHhyBUMUYzUVhLRU9OTUhXNVRaQ0RWMTA2SzZYSS4u

This course has a prerequisite online course AWR425-W Introduction to Managing Public, Private and NGO Partnerships to Prepare for and Solve Critical Logistics and Supply Chain Challenges During Large Scale Disasters. Once the online course and pretest are completed, confirmation of registration will be provided. Enrollment in MGT489 includes the prerequisite course.

Mitigation Grants: Eligible Projects and Application Pitfalls

Duration: 2Hrs (Wed 6/12 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM)

Description: What types of activities are eligible under FDEM-administered mitigation grant programs? This workshop will provide an overview of eligible project types for each program and explain common project types submitted to the State for funding. In addition, instructors will describe common application pitfalls and offer solutions to avoid these mistakes and streamline the application review process. 

Objectives: Participants will learn about eligible project types for mitigation grant programs and common application pitfalls to avoid.

Prerequisites: None

Instructor: Jared Jaworski, Laura Dhuwe, Kristin Lentz

FL-609: Permanent Work Eligibility

Duration: 4 hrs (Wed 6/12 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Description: This half-day course provides an overview of eligible costs and work under Categories C - G of the FEMA Public Assistance Program, also known as the permanent work categories of roads, water control facilities, public buildings, utilities, and beach and reactional facilities. This is one of three courses that comprise the Public Assistance Course Series Certificate, along with FL-603 and FL-608. 

Objectives: At the end of this course, participants will be able to explain the purpose of permanent work and identify potentially eligible costs along with the documentation required to request reimbursement for these costs. 

Instructor: TBD 

Prerequisites: None

Integrated Preparedness Planning Workshop

Duration: 4hrs (Wed 6/12 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Description: Instructors will guide students on how to plan internally for training and exercises, conduct a needs assessment and collaboratively establish preparedness priorities and develop or update the Integrated Preparedness Plan. 

Objectives: to prevent duplication of efforts, ensure resources are not overextended and maximize the efficacy of preparedness activity appropriations. 

Instructor: Rick Knowles, Benny St. John

Prerequisites: None

Mitigation Grants: Technical Talks

Duration: 2Hrs (Wed 6/12 10:15 AM - 12:00 PM)

Description: Grant applications are complicated, especially when you add in the engineering and environmental requirements. This workshop will break down the technical and environmental requirements of FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance grants and provide best practices for avoiding requests for information during application reviews.

Objectives: Participants will learn the technical and environmental requirements of mitigation grant applications.

Instructors: Luz Bossanyi, Kayla Born, Alaijah Marshall

Prerequisites: None

Implementing Mitigation Grants

Duration: 2Hrs (Wed 6/12 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM)

Description: The purpose of this workshop is to provide clear information of HMPG post-award project requirements and identify potential challenges and solutions. Presenters will speak about implementing the grant, monitoring, reporting requirements, financial requirements, and closeout procedures. Participants will leave this workshop with a better understanding of post-award responsibilities and requirements and learn about best practices to avoid potential challenges.

Objectives: Participants will learn the post-award requirements of mitigation grant programs to successfully implement mitigation projects.

Instructor: Holly Swift, Laura Dhuwe, Kristin Lentz

Prerequisites: None

Developing a Local Residential Mitigation Program

Duration: 2Hrs (Wed 6/12 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Description: Individual residents are not eligible to apply for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance grants, or the state-funded Hurricane Loss Mitigation Program, but instead, they must work with the local government to apply on their behalf. However, developing a local residential mitigation program can seem daunting and not feasible for some local governments. This workshop will cover considerations for developing a residential mitigation program at the local level and common concerns to help local governments pursue residential mitigation on behalf of their residents. 

Objectives: Participants will learn the basics of developing a local residential mitigation program.

Prerequisites: None

Instructor: Laura Dhuwe, Kristin Lentz

DEMES Training for Programmatic Grants (Response Bureau)

Duration: 2 hours (Wed 6/12 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Description: The Florida Division of Emergency Management is driving efficiency by digitizing our grant programs via the Salesforce platform, now known as DEMES. DEMES provides an easier navigation experience, faster processing times, reduced work via pre-populated data fields, quality controls for data accuracy, and an improved user interface. This course will cover navigation through the Technological Hazards Grants, Infrastructure Grants, Local Emergency Planning Council Grants and Grid Resiliency Grant Program.

Instructors: 

Annette Nelson

Berenice Hernandez

Prerequisite: An existing external user account in DEMES. DEMES Quick Reference Guide, with information on how to register.

DEMES Training for Mutual Aid and Resource Management

Duration: 6 hours (Thu 6/13 8:00 AM - 2:45 PM)

Description: The Florida Division of Emergency Management is driving efficiency by digitizing our grant programs via the Salesforce platform, now known as DEMES. DEMES provides an easier navigation experience, faster processing times, reduced work via pre-populated data fields, quality controls for data accuracy, and an improved user interface. This course will cover navigation through the Mutual Aid portal, Resource Support Agreements, submitting a claim and the integration of Resource Management.

Instructors: Chasity Brown and Kaylynn Perry

Prerequisite: An existing external user account in DEMES. DEMES Quick Reference Guide, with information on how to register.

 

PER-378: Coastal Hazard and Vulnerability Assessment Tools

Duration: 8hrs (Thu 6/13 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Description: This one-day performance-level training course provides training on the available tools for the assessment and planning for natural hazards and vulnerabilities that uniquely affect coastal communities. Examples of these hazards are short term events such as high surf, storm surge, and tsunami inundation, or long term threats from sea level rise and coastal erosion.

Objectives: Participants will receive a detailed overview of the tools and technologies available to assess the hazards and the vulnerabilities of coastal communities.

Instructor: TBD

Prerequisites: Separate registration

Link to NDPTC website: https://ndptc.hawaii.edu/training/delivery/3628/

Registration code: 64083

MGT-416: Introduction to Continuity of Government Planning for Rural Jurisdictions

Duration: 1 Day (Thu 6/13 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Description: This eight hour management/planning course is designed to help officials and emergency responders from rural communities in the development of continuity plans that will ensure the continuity of essential government functions across a spectrum of emergencies. This is a planning and management-level course. The instructor-led modules will cover the planning and activities necessary for responding to and recovering from a crisis event. These modules will emphasize planning, lines of succession, alternate facilities, redundant communications, and the community interaction

Objectives: Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to assist in the development succession plans, delegations of authority, alternate facilities, and continuity communications components of continuity plans for rural municipalities at the synthesis level of the cognitive domain.

Prerequisites: None

Project Management For Emergency Managers Course

Duration: 8 hours (Thu 6/13 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Description: The Project Management For Emergency Managers Course is an intensive one-day training designed to equip participants with essential project management tools and techniques specifically tailored for the Emergency Management Sector. The course focuses on key project management concepts, including Project Charters, Project Scope, Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), Project Schedule, and Management Plans for Risk, Stakeholders, Communications, and Change. Participants will engage in interactive exercises and practical applications to enhance their understanding and ability to apply project management principles in emergency management scenarios.

Objectives: By the end of this one-day course, participants will:

Summarize and interpret project management tools and techniques related to: Project Charters, Project Scope, Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), and Project Schedule, along with Management Plans for Risk, Stakeholders, Communications, and Change.

Apply project management concepts to a broadly familiar real-life scenario in a guided exercise.

Apply project management concepts to targeted Emergency Management scenarios in group exercises.

Create a plan for integrating learned project management concepts towards a personally relevant plan related to Emergency Management.

Instructors: Emily Dwyer

MGT-477: Roles for State, Tribal, and Territorial Governments in the Implementation of Disaster Housing Programs

Duration: 1 day (Thu 6/13 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Description: This instructor-led training will provide the learners with information on how state, local, territory, and tribal (SLTT) governments can plan for and implement disaster housing programs. The course will include an overview of disaster housing task forces, key disaster planning documents (e.g., state housing strategy, disaster housing administrative plan, disaster housing plan), and how to incorporate planning considerations for vulnerable populations. A review of state and federal housing assistance programs will also be addressed. It will include reviewing issues, including: requirements for receiving funds, managing and reporting funds, and closeout requirements.

Objectives: This management level, instructor-led, course is designed to assist participants in developing a SLTT level disaster housing program for their jurisdiction with the following course objectives: 1. Given slide-based resources, describe how the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide grants to STT governments to administer temporary and permanent housing construction directly; 2. Given slide-based resources, identify three concepts of disaster housing and identify the importance of disaster housing planning; 3. Given slide-based resources, describe the potential members and goals of a state Disaster Housing Task Force; 4. Given slide-based resources, identify the critical components of a state Disaster Housing Strategy and Administrative Plan; 5. Given slide-based resources, describe the necessary components of a state disaster housing plan; and 6. Given slide-based resources, identify applicable disaster housing assistance programs.

Prerequisites: All course participants must have a FEMA Student Identification (SID). The National Center for Disaster Preparedness (NCDP) assumes that those taking this Performance Level training do not necessarily possess prior job training and experience in disaster housing, especially given that this course topic is not readily available elsewhere. However, awareness of disaster management principles is assumed, and it is recommended, but not required, that course participants have previous experience in disaster recovery for the housing sector. Prior to attending this course, prospective students may wish to complete the courses listed here: IS 100 - Introduction to the Incident Command System (ICS); IS 403 - Introduction to Individual Assistance (IA); IS 634 - Introduction to FEMA's Public Assistance Program (PA); IS 660 - Introduction to Public-Private Partnerships; IS 700 - National Incident Management System (NIMS), An Introduction; IS 800 - National Response Framework (NRF), An Introduction; and Emergency Support Function #6 - Mass Care, Emergency. Successful completion of this course will depend on the participants' ability to recall information presented throughout the course, categorize concepts, apply the learned concepts in real-life scenarios, and make decisions based on the material shared. In addition, participants will be prompted to perceive, receive, respond to, and organize concepts throughout the course.

DEMES Training for Programmatic Grants (Mitigation and Preparedness)

Duration: 2 hours (Thu 6/13 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Description: The Florida Division of Emergency Management is driving efficiency by digitizing our grant programs via the Salesforce platform, now known as DEMES. DEMES provides an easier navigation experience, faster processing times, reduced work via pre-populated data fields, quality controls for data accuracy, and an improved user interface. This course will cover navigation through the programmatic grants including Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Emergency Management Performance Grant, Emergency Management Preparedness and Assistance Grant, and Nonprofit Security Grant Program

Instructors: Jared Jaworski and Myron Rozier

Prerequisite: An existing external user account in DEMES. DEMES Quick Reference Guide, with information on how to register.

Disaster Recovery in Rural Communities (MGT-415)

Duration: 4Hrs (Fri 6/14 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Description: a planning and management-level course designed for public officials, community leaders, and private-sector representatives in rural communities who play key roles in the disaster recovery process. The overarching goals of the course is to assist rural communities with effective and efficient implementation of recovery efforts, thus ensuring the best possible long-term social and economic recovery of their communities from disaster.

Objectives: Upon completion of the course, students will develop a capacity to mitigate disasters to prevent loss of life, environment, and property; facilitate the development of recovery plans that revitalize communities impacted by disasters; and efficiently administer the disaster recovery process. Students will actively engage in a fictional disaster recovery scenario.

Prerequisites: None

MGT-484: Nature-Based Solutions for Mitigation Hazards

Duration: 4 Hrs (Fri 6/14 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM)

Description: This half-day (4-hour) management-level course aims to highlight nature-based solutions as important and effective tools for mitigating hazards and climate impacts. The course provides planners, government officials, and hazard mitigation professionals information on the types, applications, and benefits of nature-based solutions as well as the common barriers for their use. Beyond an overview of nature-based solutions, the course focuses on the planning and implementation mechanisms that can be leveraged to employ these solutions in practice. This includes planning mechanisms related to land use, hazard mitigation, stormwater management, transportation, open space, and disaster recovery. The course will also highlight important planning considerations for utilizing nature-based solutions, including planning quality, alignment among plans, and equity in nature-based solutions; as well as the public and private funding mechanisms for implementing them.

Objectives: Participants will learn the information needed to select and promote applicable nature-based solutions as a complement or alternative to structural mitigation measures to make their communities safer.

Instructor: TBD

Prerequisites: Separate Registration

Link to NDPTC website: https://ndptc.hawaii.edu/training/delivery/3629/

Registration code: 85091

Emergency Management Team Building Training: Cohort 2 (McChrystal Group)

Duration: 2 days at FTEM (Tues 6/11 and Wed 6/12), followed by a professional development course over multiple months

Description: The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Emergency Management Team Building Training is designed for mid-level managers and supervisors in Emergency Management agencies who aspire to take on leadership roles in the field. Drawing from the Team of Teams framework, this ~12-week program provides participants with the knowledge, skills, and tactics to lead and manage teams in their current roles and beyond. The program consists of an in-person Kickoff and virtual modules covering topics such as strategic thinking, communication, decision-making, team building, and giving and receiving feedback. Participants will also engage in experiential learning activities, such as simulations, case studies and coaching groups to apply their learning to emergency management scenarios. The program will culminate in an in-person graduation event and participants will receive a certificate of achievement.

• High-collaboration 12-week program consisting of in-person workshops, online modules, coaching sessions and a capstone project.
• The goal of the program is to enhance the skills and competencies of our high-potential teammates in the “middle” of our organizations that are prime for future growth. The program is designed to prepare participants for future leadership roles within their organizations.
• The program covers topics such as strategic thinking, communication and collaboration, decision making, giving and receiving feedback, mentoring and project management.
• There will be opportunities to network with leaders from other states.

Cohort 2 will run from June through the end of August with a 2-day in-person Kickoff on June 11 and 12 at Florida’s Training for Emergency Management (FTEM) in St. Augustine, FL. An in-person graduation is anticipated during the week of August 26.

Tuition for the 12-week course is $4900 per person, but scholarships are available for eligible participants. More information and the form to register can be found here.

Prerequisites: Separate Registration at https://www.floridadisasterfoundation.org/programs/

Program Fee Payment:

• How: Check, paid to the order of Florida Disaster Foundation. Checks can be brought to the Kickoff in person, or mailed to the Florida Disaster Foundation: 2555 Shumard Oak Blvd. Tallahassee, FL, 32399
• Amount: $4,900
• Questions: please reach directly to Jeremy Smith (Jeremy.Smith@em.myflorida.com)

Please note that in addition to the program fee, additional expenses will occur (such as travel to and from kickoff and graduation). These expenses will be the responsibility of your agency.

 

Project Management for Emergency Management Professionals (KPMG)

Duration: 2 hrs (Tue 6/11 1:00 PM - 2:45 PM)

Description: This course will introduce participants to the fundamentals of project management in an effort to empower participants to apply the content to emergency management efforts.

Objectives: 

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

• Summarize key project management foundational principles, concepts, and terminology
• Describe how project management methodologies and practices can be adapted to address the challenges faced in emergency management
• Identify techniques for efficient resource allocation (personnel, equipment, financial resources, time, etc.) to increase the likelihood of successful project execution
• List core communication skills required to effectively interact with project team members, stakeholders, and partners throughout all phases of a project

Instructors: Gene Detter & TBD

Prerequisites: None

 

Procurement 101 Workshop

Duration: 2 hrs (Wed 6/12 1:00 PM - 2:45 PM)

Description: This session provides attendees with the basics of procurement in the State of Florida. Attendees should expect to gain a broad understanding of statutory and rules requirements, as well as helpful tips and tricks to most effectively utilize taxpayer dollars.

Objectives: 

• Identify various methods of procurement.
• Describe governance surrounding purchasing in the state.
• List ethical considerations surrounding purchasing.
• Name the steps for purchasing in the state, from inception to payment.

Instructors: Jesse Marks

Prerequisites: None

 

Local Coordinating Officers Workshop

Duration: 2 hrs (Thu 6/13 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM)

Description: This course provides key local staff with updated information on state and federal disaster assistance programs and processes, to include statewide mutual aid, the role of the State EOC, and FEMA’s Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, and Hazard Mitigation Programs. The focus is on management issues that local response and recovery officials may face in relationship with state and federal partners.

Objectives: The goal of this course is to prepare local officials and associated staff to efficiently navigate the complexity of disaster management by providing current and accurate information on related state and federal programs across all phases of emergency management. The course also builds essential skills to successfully manage response and long-term recovery from the state perspective while working across boundaries with other partners.

Instructors: Melissa Shirah, Doug Roberts, Ian Guidicelli, FEMA Region IV FCO, John Brogan

Prerequisites: None

 

Show me the Money! (DEMES for Vendors)

Duration: 2 hrs (Fri 6/14 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM)

Description: This session provides attendees with an overview of the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s Enterprise Solution (DEMES), focusing on processing invoices in DEMES and the cause, effect, milestones, and processing from submittal to payment. The session will include an overview of the invoice process in DEMES, walk through the system from a vendor and DEM perspective, invoice submittal and payment, and frequently asked questions and key DEMES information.

Objectives: 

• How it all starts…Registration in DEMES
• Understanding the Vendor invoice process and the internal and external flow in DEMES
• Example of the Florida Division of Emergency Management Overview and Process in DEMES
  • Invoice Submittal
  • Invoice Processing
• Frequently Asked Questions and Troubleshooting in DEMES
• Key Contract Milestones: The Florida Division of Emergency Management Perspective

Instructors: Jeremy W. Smith

Prerequisites: None

 

Florida Logistics Workshop

Duration: 2 hrs (Wed 6/12 1:00 PM - 2:45 PM)

Description: During the activation of the State Emergency Operations Center, the Logistics Section stands ready to assist the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) in coordinating logistical support for Response at both State and local levels. This workshop is an overview of the Divisions’ logistics operations during activation while guiding the branches and various functions within the Logistics Section. Topics discussed within this section will include Points of Distribution (PODs), Logistical Staging Areas (LSAs), base camps, and commodities tracking.

Objectives: 

• Educate participants on the Division’s logistics operations
• Discuss points of distribution, logistical staging areas, and base camps
• Explain how to request and manage resources during a grey sky activation

Instructors: Christina Goetzman, Ian Guidicelli, LTC Melissa Rudd

Prerequisites: None

 

PIO: Bull Horns, Billboards, Banner Planes & Beyond

Duration: 4 hrs (Wed 6/12 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Description: Dive into the art of communication after disaster strikes. When technology fails, it's time to go back to basics. From the booming power of bull horns to the timeless effectiveness of billboards, this course explores various methods to ensure your message reaches its audience. We won't stop there; we'll also tackle banner planes, crafting attention-grabbing messages amidst chaos. Whether you're communicating with Baby Boomers or Gen Alpha, this course equips you with the tools to effectively reach any demographic. Join us as we navigate the post-disaster communication landscape with creativity, resilience, and a touch of old-school charm.

Objectives: This course equips you with the tools to effectively reach any demographic.

Instructors: Mike Jachles, Ashley Turner, Corey Dobridnia

Prerequisites: None

 

PIO: Blue Skies Brand Building: Leveraging Social Media & Engagement Tools

Duration: 4 hrs (Wed 6/12 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Description: This course is your ticket to unlocking the full potential of your brand's online presence. Dive deep into the world of social media and engagement strategies as we explore cutting-edge techniques to elevate your brand above the competition. From crafting compelling content to fostering meaningful connections with your audience, you'll gain practical skills and insider knowledge to drive engagement and maximize impact. Regardless of your position in Emergency Management, it will help you establish your agency’s online presence.

Objectives: Gain practical skills and insider knowledge to drive engagement and maximize impact to establish your agency’s online presence.

Instructors: Mike Jachles, Ashley Turner, Corey Dobridnia

Prerequisites: None

 

Public-Private Partnerships – Managing Through Crisis

Duration: 2 hrs (Tue 6/11 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM)

Description: As disasters become more frequent and intense, private sector preparedness is crucial. This session explores disaster preparation, response, and recovery through the lens of a leading company - Walmart. We'll delve into their established approach that prioritizes employee safety (Associates), operational continuity (Operations), and community support, showcasing how they manage throughout the disaster cycle. Additionally, the session will highlight the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors in building resilience.

Objectives: This course equips you with the tools to effectively reach any demographic.

Instructors: Lee Siler, Director of Emergency Preparedness and Strategy

Prerequisites: None

 

Sponsorship Sessions

All workshops are Monday 6/10 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM.

Critical Thinking in Emergencies: What should we know about making maximal decisions with minimal information

Duration: 2 hrs (Mon 6/10 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Description: As Emergency Management leaders we often find ourselves making maximal decisions with very little information at the time. It is likely that we all have found ourselves looking back at a decision and said “what was I thinking”?. Have you ever attended a meeting and someone used the age old sayings: “Monday morning quarterback” or “Hindsight is always 20/20”. I am sure these things have frustrated you or your team at times in the after action process. In this discussion we will examine critical thinking and the processes around it. Human factors have long been studied in critical situations and understanding how we receive information and draw conclusions is crucial to understanding if we are thinking correctly during these situations, because if critical thinking was easy, then why do we not always do it? From this talk we hope that you will learn about how our brains process information and make decisions thus enabling you and your teams to see when a decision making process might not be getting the intended outcome.

Instructors: Robbie Meek

Prerequisites: None

 

Community Disaster Crisis Response & Recovery from the Trenches, presented by CDR Maguire 

Disasters can push limited resources to the brink and, when you least expect it, leave your community vulnerable to FEMA Public Assistance missteps and slowing your recovery.

The emergency management experts at CDR|EM understand the Keys to Recovery, and bring extensive expertise in helping communities respond to and recover from different types of disasters, including Hurricanes Matthew, Irma, Michael, Ian, and Idalia; the 2020 Oregon Wildfires; Kentucky Severe Storms and Tornadoes; the 2022 Marshall Fire in Colorado; and the 2022 Eastern Kentucky Floods. 

Knowing your disaster vulnerabilities can help you prepare and plan your pre- and post-disaster response, as planning eliminates chaos and maximizes your ability to accept and utilize resources and maximize reimbursement for eligible costs. 

Learn and share what steps you can take to maximize your community’s ability to protect life and safety, while preparing for the long road to recovery. 

• Pre-Disaster Preparation and Stand-by services 
• How to fund staff augmentation to sustain critical services
• Documenting pre and post disaster damages to maximize and speed-up reimbursement
• When and how to ask for help 
• Staffing and services to maximize your transition from response to recovery 
• Five questions you need to ask before contracting during disasters

The obvious and not-so-obvious Emergency Management relationships between the private and government sector, presented by Doodie Calls, Inc.

This course dives into the obvious and not-so-obvious emergency management  relationships between the private and government sector, and how key functions of each sector can work together to produce results in an effective and efficient manner.

55 Years of Planning and Industry Leadership, presented by CrowderGulf, LLC

Since its inception in 1969, CrowderGulf has continually strived to match the pace of the ever-evolving industrial landscape of Disaster Response and Recovery. As the technologies, means, and methodologies of Debris Management and Disaster Recovery have evolved over the years, CrowderGulf has kept stride by integrating those innovations into its administrative capabilities and operational capacity. Along with the integration of industrial advancements, CrowderGulf has maintained its core values of integrity and client commitment, while proactively implementing “lessons learned” across its fifty-five-year history. These efforts have translated into pre-planning and coordination protocols that have remained scalable to unprecedented project size and scope. In this session, CrowderGulf seeks to share the lessons learned, debris management best practices, and components of pre-planning and preparation that have allowed us to successfully serve communities in need for over half a century.

Communication in the Trenches, presented by SLSCO, LTD

The "Communication in the Trenches" session goes beyond the basics of leading, managing, and enhancing basecamp, operations, and logistics communication. It will explore the critical communication channels between SLS and our vendors/suppliers and shed light on how we effectively communicate with buyers of services, including agencies and partners. Understanding and improving these dual communication pathways is crucial for seamless coordination, clear directives, and efficient teamwork during emergencies and post-disaster scenarios.

Drawing upon SLS' extensive experience in the field, this session offers real-world insights and practical strategies tailored for emergency and disaster settings. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of effective communication strategies, the latest tools and technologies to facilitate clear and efficient communication, and the importance of transparent and consistent messaging to both vendors and clients.

43 years of Excellence in Response; A quarter Century of Service in Florida, presented by Garner Environmental Services

History, discipline, and attitude. What it takes to evolve and be successful in emergency response/management, a silverback perspective.

DT360+: The Road to Reimbursement, presented by Debris Tech

DebrisTech explains data collection and processing using DT360 cameras and LiDAR. The documentation captures infrastructure conditions and ROW maintenance to maximize reimbursement after severe weather events.