Master PIO Program

I'm just back from four days at FEMA's Emergency Management Institute in Maryland, where I was one of 24 selected nationwide for the first Master PIO program. 

It's actually a three-part course, E-389, E-393 and E-394, and is currently being offered as a pilot program. 

I'm literally speechless (those who know me can appreciate that very rare circumstance) at how outstanding the first part of this was.

My three recommendations were from Trudy Thompson-Rice at the American Red Cross, Julie Debarelaben at the Civil Air Patrol and Kim Burgess at FEMA. 

Special shout out to the instructors:

• Dr. Sam Bernard, owner and president, Bernard & Associates, P.C.
• Dave Bunce, fire chief (retired), Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
• Tom Olshanski, CPM, EFO, Director of External Affairs, U.S Fire Administration, NETC
• Phil Politano, training specialist, FEMA/EMI
• Dr. Joe Trahan,APR, Fellow PRSA, CEO/president, Trahan & Associates

Now, I'm working on my research project, a Capstone Paper to document the application of advanced concepts in public information and communications in emergency management leadership. 

I'll be going back to Maryland next summer for the second session in July and the third in August to complete the program.