Community
Emergency management is more than just a job; it is a calling grounded in service, guided by principles, and driven by purpose. At the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), we exist to support every emergency manager, no matter where they work, how they operate, or what political philosophy they hold. We are an association for all emergency managers, and that diversity of thought and experience is not a weakness; it is our strength.
With an organization that includes over 6,000 members across the country and around the world, we must recognize that at any given time, we will encounter diverse viewpoints among our members. We also see dedicated professionals with very different political, philosophical, and emergency management approaches. Meanwhile, ongoing and future federal support in the United States remains increasingly uncertain. Furthermore, exploring and/or passing judgment on the complexities of every national, state, local, territorial, or tribal policy, procedure, or operation would neither be judicious, wise, nor practical.
At IAEM, we must remain committed to the principles and policies we uphold. This applies to every member of the association equally. Today, as we navigate an environment that often prioritizes outrage over constructive dialogue, we should feel empowered to debate and address our differences. But in doing so, we must ensure that we clearly distinguish facts from opinion. We should let our principles guide us, to "create and sustain broad and sincere relationships among individuals and organizations to encourage trust, advocate a team atmosphere, build consensus, and facilitate communication."
In these dynamic and challenging times, it is essential to remember what IAEM is and what it is not. In addition to promoting the Principles of Emergency Management, we support and advance the Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) Program and the IAEM Scholarship Program. We educate emergency managers through our programs, like the IAEM Annual Conference and the virtual conference. We foster collaboration by encouraging participation in our committees and caucuses. We create a network where members can seek advice and answers without hesitation by consulting peers through our closed community, IAEMconnect. As the founder of National Emergency Management Awareness Month, we educate and advocate for the profession to generate support for its needs.
What IAEM is not is the judge and jury of the emergency management community, nor should it aim to be. We do not exist to referee the profession or elevate one viewpoint over another. What we do stand for—unequivocally—is that emergency management exists to safeguard lives and property, protect communities, and foster resilience through thoughtful, evidence-based strategies. Every decision we make should reflect our responsibility to uphold public trust, and we must ensure that every initiative aligns with these values. Above all, emergency managers should do what they can to ensure emergency management remains a discipline rooted in compassion and service to all people as we work to build safer communities.
Whether you're a long-time member or just learning about IAEM, we invite you to engage with us—explore our programs, contribute to the conversation, and uphold the values that strengthen our profession. Together, we can advance emergency management as a united, trusted, and inclusive community. Join us. Learn more at www.IAEM.org.
In Service,
Carrie Speranza, CEM
IAEM-USA President