Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Richard Worch

Abstract

This paper presents a research study in the field of emergency management. The study aims to identify training or educational needs for the emergency manager at the local level of government to effectively handle disasters. The study uses phenomenon theory with semi-structured interviews that gather data from emergency managers that have experience with major disasters and training requirements. Participants were experts in the emergency management profession with the ability to speak appropriately about the phenomenon. Research questions identified the training methods that produce the best results along with the specific hazards emergency managers may encounter. The research design used questionnaires and interviews to gather data from participants, which was analyzed to produce viable results. The results identified in-person training was the most effective model with specific hazards varying depend on location. The main area emergency managers should be trained is in Incident Command System (ICS) classes, specifically communications. This area was noted by all participants as a key to success before, during, and after a disaster or incident. The results of the study will assist local emergency managers to better understand training or educational needs to effectively deal with hazards and disasters therefore increasing the safety and security of the community.

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