5 Professional Organizations for those in the Emergency Management Field

January 30, 2019

National Emergency Management Association
International Association of Emergency Managers
Disaster Recovery Institute
Disaster Emergency and Response Association
World Health Organization

Emergency management professionals work in a field that constantly changes. It requires critical thinking skills and the ability to multitask and make split-second decisions. They are very often the difference between life and death for countless individuals. Belonging to professional organizations such as these five is the best way to remain prepared and knowledgeable in the emergency management field.

1. National Emergency Management Association

If emergency management professionals join only one professional association, the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA) is the one. NEMA gathers emergency management professionals from across all of the United States, including its eight territories and Washington, D.C. NEMA hosts forums and meetings all across the country and throughout the year. It provides a wide variety of resources, including cutting edge research findings. NEMA also provides several leadership opportunities for individuals looking to take their careers to the next level.

2. International Association of Emergency Managers

It is important for emergency management professionals to maintain an awareness of the global state of the field and collaboration with emergency managers across the world. This is the primary goal of the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM). The IAEM hosts several events throughout the year and provides a wide variety of resource. For those unable to travel around the world, there are online conferences and discussion forums. The IAEM also provides a job bulletin for both employers and those looking for new positions in emergency management.

3. Disaster Recovery Institute

The Disaster Recovery Institute (DRI) was established as a bridge of communication between emergency management professionals and communities. They provide education and training on prevention and efficient response to a wide variety of emergencies. They host several professional development events throughout the world and across the globe. They also provide online courses and certificates that allow event managers to become specialists in areas of particular interest. Finally, the DRI creates opportunities for collaboration between emergency managers and other service providers, such as healthcare and law enforcement.

4. Disaster Emergency and Response Association

During any type of disaster, emergency managers rely heavily on the effort of volunteers. The Disaster Emergency and Response Association (DERA) was created to bring full-time workers and volunteers together. DERA offers international training, information, and resources for both professionals and volunteers. They also host fundraising events.

5. World Health Organization

The World Health Organization (WHO) is the hub of the United Nations for all things health-related, including prevention and response to both natural and human-caused emergencies. Membership in the WHO is an excellent way for emergency managers to stay up to date on the latest information and resources in the field and build solid relationships with the healthcare professionals they need to work with during and in the wake of a disaster.

These five professional organizations were created to help professionals excel in the emergency management field. They also each contribute something unique and valuable to the communities that rely on emergency managers. From resources and information to hands-on training and networking events, they offer the best and most enjoyable opportunities for professional development.