A career in disaster management gives you the opportunity to work in several areas helping those suffering through a crisis. In this career you may be called to help those that have been displaced due to a hurricane, devastating tornado, severe flooding, explosions or wild fires to name a few scenarios. Part of the training that you receive in school for an associate degree teaches you how to create an emergency plan, how to be prepared to handle disasters, and general preparedness techniques.
This is a growing career field that is expected to add to its workforce in the next few years.
What to Expect in School
While in school, students can expect to take courses that are similar to that of a social worker. This will include a psychology course to aid those experiencing a tragedy to remain clear minded. Courses that teach students what weapons of mass destruction are, how to detect them and how to handle emergent situations including these weapons may also part of the educational experience. Additionally, students will learn how to develop recovery plans, maintain safety during an emergency, and how to plan for emergency medical services to be administered.
Career Options
With an associate degree in disaster management, several career paths are open to you. Upon graduation, you'll be able to apply for positions with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), governmental departments on all levels, local school districts, and national weather monitoring services. These are just a few options. Salaries will vary depending on the agency or company you are employed with, and the position held.
Some graduates in disaster management continue their education to receive a CEM or Certified Emergency Management certificate. Federal agencies, such as FEMA and the National Weather Service prefer that candidates for employment have this certification. This is a very rewarding career path that helps communities regroup and focus on rebuilding after a major disaster.
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