Back from FEMA training

There were 18 of us taking the course.

I'm working toward a promotion from a FEMA Media Relations Specialist to a FEMA Media Relations Manager. That's the person who runs the Joint Information Center in the Joint Field Office, reporting to an Assistant External Affairs Officer.

One of the requirements is that I complete the E0739 Intermediate External Affairs Training course, so I just spent four days at the DHS's Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anniston, Alabama, taking and passing it. It built on the technical foundation established in E0475, External Affairs Specialist Training. 

The Course Objectives were:

·        Demonstrate a working knowledge of the ESF #15 SOP.

·        Demonstrate management skills and techniques that managers may use to create a constructive working environment.

·        Develop, prioritize, and communicate SMART objectives that support the mission.

·        Demonstrate the ability to implement ESF #15 as an External Affairs manager.

·        Describe the manager’s role and responsibilities to advise and support the AEAO.

·        Describe the manager’s responsibilities related to transition and closeout.

·        Discuss current topics and issues that affect FEMA External Affairs.