The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) is accepting nominations for the 2026 Texas Emergency Management Awards, recognizing excellence in emergency management, leadership, and service across the State of Texas. Additionally, TDEM is seeking nominations to honor first responders who have passed away within the last year for inclusion in the First Responder Memorial at the Texas Emergency Management Conference.
“These awards highlight the dedication, innovation, and leadership demonstrated by professionals and partners across our state,” said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. “Each year, we recognize individuals and teams whose commitment to service strengthens our collective efforts to take care of Texas. We look forward to honoring those who continue to set the standard in the emergency management discipline.”
Visit The Conference website to enter or submit a nomination for this year’s awards. Submissions must be received by April 10. Award recipients will be recognized during the 2026 Texas Emergency Management Conference Awards Luncheon on May 28 at the Fort Worth Convention Center.
TDEM leadership will present several recognitions, including the Leadership Award, Agency of the Year, Hometown Hero Award, Dr. Chuck Bauer Award, Spouse of the Year, Partnership Recognition, Hall of Fame announcement, and the News Flash Award.
Awardees represent local, state, and federal agencies, private sector partners, media professionals, and volunteer organizations who play a vital role in supporting emergency management across Texas.
The First Responder Memorial at The Conference recognizes the life, dedication, and service of first responders across emergency management, fire and rescue, law enforcement, emergency medical services (EMS), and public health who have passed away.
“Recognizing the service and commitment of those who dedicated their lives to protecting others is a meaningful and important part of The Conference,” said Chief Kidd. “We invite Texans to help us honor these individuals as we remember their impact on the communities they served.”
To honor a first responder at The Conference, please submit information here. Submissions will be accepted through April 10.
The Conference, which takes place May 26-29 in Fort Worth, attracts more than 4,000 elected officials, first responders, emergency managers, and decision makers from across Texas and the nation. The exhibit hall, featuring over 180,000 square feet of space, provides attendees the opportunity to explore innovative products and services from numerous organizations supporting emergency management operations.
Learn more about The Conference at tdem.texas.gov/conference.
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