SAN ANTONIO – The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) today officially opened The Conference 2022, a three-and-a-half day dynamic event delivering dozens of valuable workshops for continuing education, an exhibit hall spanning over 180,000 square feet, and networking opportunities with key partners from across the state.
After a 37-month lapse due to the pandemic, The Conference returned to the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, bringing more than 3,000 attendees from May 31 to June 3, 2022. Throughout the week, first responders, emergency managers from local jurisdictions, elected officials, state and federal agencies, tribal communities, and private-sector partners from across the nation registered for the largest event of its kind in Texas that provides an unparalleled opportunity for the exchange of ideas, access to latest technology and research in the field of emergency management.
This year, several workshops led by the most recognized experts in their field will cover topics ranging from cybersecurity in communities to all-hazards preparedness and improvements in communication to residents before, during, and after a disaster or emergency.
“The Conference is of key significance to the state of Texas because the information sharing and exchange of ideas that takes place here will help determine how we better prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters and emergencies,” said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. “At The Conference, attendees not only get valuable opportunities for education and certifications, but also the ability to leverage relationships and create stronger connections for collaboration.”
The event kicked off with an Opening Session, featuring remarks from The Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson, Corpus Christi Fire Chief Robert Rocha, West Texas Food Bank Executive Director Libby Campbell, City of Amarillo Public Health Director Casie Stoughton, and Human Trafficking Institute Senior Legal Counsel Lindsey Lane. American Idol alumni Trebel Soul performed the National Anthem and several children of TDEM employees led the Opening Session attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance to the U.S. and Texas flags.
Throughout The Conference, presenters from diverse backgrounds in academics, emergency response, the private sector, medical professionals, entrepreneurs, and emergency managers offer a wide range of perspectives in different fields of emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation, benefitting public service in Texas and creating communities that will be better prepared for the upcoming hurricane season and beyond.
Follow The Conference on social media for official updates and information before, during, and after the eventful week. Attendees are encouraged to use the hashtag #TheConferenceTX throughout the week.
Facebook: TexasEmergencyManagementConference
Twitter: TheConferenceTX
Instagram: TheConferenceTX
LinkedIn: TheConferenceTX
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