The Texas Emergency Management Academy’s fourth cadet class is participating in a multi-day disaster scenario as part of the program’s capstone course.
“The innovative curriculum in the Texas Emergency Management Academy prepares the next generation of emergency management professionals to effectively support communities in need,” said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. “The Academy reflects TDEM's continued commitment to building a strong, capable emergency management workforce for Texas and beyond.”
The capstone exercise for the San Antonio-based cohort takes place at the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service's Emergency Operations Training Center in College Station, where responders from around the world develop and refine their skills. Throughout the simulation, cadets assume roles within an Emergency Operations Center and work through realistic disaster scenarios across multiple operational periods. Participants rotate through key positions, strengthening their ability to coordinate resources, make critical decisions, and manage incident response.
“These cadets demonstrate a strong commitment to public service and have polished their skillsets to support incident management team activities,” said Training Division Chief Kade Long, who leads the Academy’s development and curriculum. “The capstone is designed to push cadets into complex scenarios that require coordination, adaptability, and leadership. These are skills they will carry into their careers serving Texas communities.”
Graduates of the Texas Emergency Management Academy gain comprehensive knowledge in emergency management law, planning, disaster finance, resource management, incident command, Emergency Operations Center operations, hazard mitigation, disaster recovery, and public information, among other core disciplines. Cadets also earn multiple nationally recognized certifications, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency Professional Development Series, the Level I Professional Continuity Practitioner certification, and the National Emergency Management Basic Academy. In addition, graduates become certified emergency medical technicians and are eligible for National Registry Certification upon successful completion.
This cadet class will graduate on April 10.
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