No Results Found
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.
Adam Montella and Ron Crane of SummitET learn about the DHS-led Community Lifeline Status System project from emergency manager Hal Grieb of G&H International Services.
In this IAEM Conference Series episode of SummitET’s podcast Bridging the Gap, Hal Grieb of G&H International Services introduces the Community Lifeline Status System (CLSS), a software reporting tool that operationalizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Community Lifelines construct. CLSS is an effort led by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T), in collaboration with FEMA, to provide the emergency management community with a comprehensive, systematic approach to lifeline status planning, monitoring, and reporting across areas impacted by disaster. The reporting tool, which has been in development for about 2.5 years, is set to be released at no cost to all state, local tribes, and territories in April 2025.
This new tool aims to make lifelines more than just a conceptual idea by creating a repeatable framework for data-driven decisions, allowing emergency managers to easily assess and report on the status of critical community lifelines during a disaster. This approach enhances communication among executives and elected officials and allows for a deeper understanding of community indicators to prioritize and share resources effectively.
“CLSS is going to open the door to linking your plans that you’ve already written… to the data that you’re overwhelmed with.“
Over 220 agencies and 500 emergency managers have provided input to ensure that the tool is built for emergency managers by emergency managers.
Community Lifelines were introduced by FEMA in early 2019 to prioritize scarce resources for critical community services and increase effectiveness in disaster operations. Lifelines categorize essential services such as energy, communications, food/hydration/shelter, health and medical, safety and security, and more, and are designed to help local and state governments manage these services more efficiently.
The Community Lifeline Status System Tool can be used for both response and recovery planning and allows for the consolidation of critical services under grouped categories, making it easier for smaller government staffs to manage multiple responsibilities.
The tool allows for customization of indicators by jurisdiction, as different communities have unique indicators of impact. This customization ensures that the tool is relevant and effective for various communities with different resources and capabilities.
In the episode, Hal shares that from his point of view, the problems in Emergency Management remain the same over his tenure in the field, however the tools and data available have changed significantly. The need for better data integration and analysis to make informed decisions and manage the overwhelming amount of data effectively is key to improving the field.
Hal notes that while the current tool does not incorporate AI, it lays the groundwork for future integration by creating a data architecture that can be fed into AI systems.
Hal, the Jefferson County Emergency Management Director during the 2021 Marshall Fire near Boulder, Colorado, highlights the need for common language and predefined indicators in emergency communication. The CLSS tool offers a structured method for rapid emergency assessment and response by doing just that. For more information about this software system, reach out to Hal below to get connected.
Director of Delivery & Project Management, G&H International; Emergency Manager
Executive VP, SummitET; Former GM of Emergency Management for the NY & NJ Port Authority
Associate VP, SummitET; Firefighter & HAZMAT Technician; Emergency Management SME
Visit our Terms & Conditions
SummitET® is excited to present exercises and training capabilities at this year’s Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference (I/ITSEC) in Orlando, Florida from December 2 to 6, 2024.
For almost 60 years, professionals in modeling, simulation, and training have gathered annually at I/ITSEC with a shared objective: to enhance the effectiveness of these disciplines in the world’s most complex environments. The 2024 conference theme Assuring Deterrence Through Integrated Training and Readiness – The Need is Now! “resonates not only throughout our military structure and operations, but through our allies and partners who, like us, are increasingly facing great challenges.”
SummitET has quickly grown its reputation as a leader in developing and supporting preparedness solutions that prioritize industry best practices and the latest developments in learning and technology. Drawing on their diversity of experience in emergency management and response, communications, and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) across military, government, and private sector applications, SummitET experts bring a comprehensive perspective to preparing for and managing a variety of risks. We provide solutions including full-scale field exercises, table-top exercises, plan development support, threat assessments, technical training and education, and beyond.
Use this calendar to schedule a meeting with our experts at I/ITSEC to discuss how we can support your trainings, simulations, planning, and more.
Our preparedness capabilities include conducting threat assessments, developing response plans for potential threats, building training designed to mitigate the threats, and providing a suite of tailored workshops and exercises to test the readiness as well as providing the operational support an organization may require.
This includes comprehensive training in Joint Information System (JIS)/Joint Information Center (JIC) methodology and practices, risk and crisis communications, media relations, workshops, and exercises.
Our training replicates real-world simulations conducted on closed native digital platforms to provide real-time, hands-on familiarity with social media tools and practices.
Our diverse range of technical experts can support CBRNE effects modeling and simulation for realistic scenarios or augment exercises and training with technical support.
SummitET holds government contract vehicles that allow us to provide technical, programmatic, and business support services to federal and state/local agencies. Additionally, we are a subcontract team member for DTRA’s Assessment, Exercises, Modeling, and Simulation Support (AEMSS) multiple award contract.
SummitET experts Angela Leek, PhD, CHP and Jeff Skinner, MD will present a tutorial alongside colleague Nir Keren, PhD from Iowa State University:
Enhancing CBRN Response Readiness Using a Mental Model Matrix
Monday, December 2, 8:30-10:00am
Room 320F
Summary of Abstract:
Effectively addressing chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats is crucial for military and emergency response teams, as these complex and rare incidents challenge responders’ preparedness. Traditional training often fails to capture the unpredictable nature of CBRN events, leading to gaps in responders’ mental models. This workshop presents an innovative approach that utilizes the Expected Mental Model State (EMMS) Diagnostic Matrix, an analytical tool designed to enhance cognitive strategies by aligning them with established military doctrines and emergency protocols. Participants will engage in discussions using case studies and data from practical exercises to identify gaps in mental models and refine training methodologies. By integrating military doctrine into the EMMS framework, the workshop aims to improve training resources and ensure that response teams are better equipped to handle the complexities of CBRN incidents.
Director of Radiological Solutions & Regulatory Affairs
Radiology Oncologist | CBRNE SME
If you’re attending I/ITSEC, we welcome you to join us at this session to learn more. Read the full abstract on page 84 of the conference agenda.
Find SummitET experts at Booth #2457.
Executive Vice President
Chief Executive Officer
Program Manager | Law Enforcement and CBRNE SME
Get in touch with our experts before the conference to get additional information or set a meeting time.
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) experts are attending the 2024 National Homeland Security Conference (NHSC) in Miami Beach, Florida from July 22 to 25. The NHSC brings together professionals in Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Fire and Emergency...
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) experts will be presenting at the 34th annual National Radiological Emergency Preparedness Conference (NREP) in Dallas, Texas from April 29 to May 2, 2024. The mission of NREP is “to provide a professional forum for...
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) experts are attending the 12th Annual Joint Civil and DoD CBRN Symposium in Washington D.C. March 13 – 14, 2024. This year’s symposium will convene senior level experts from across the military, federal government, state...
October 31, 2024 | St. Petersburg, FL
U.S. Acting Secretary of Labor Julie A. Su recognized Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) as one of 839 recipients of the 2024 HIRE Vets Medallion Award during a virtual award ceremony presented by U.S. Department of Labor. SummitET earned the Gold Medallion award for the fourth time since 2020. The Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act (HIRE Vets Act) Medallion Program is the only federal award program that recognizes employers who successfully recruit, hire, and retain veterans.
“We are honored to receive the HIRE Vets Medallion Award a fourth time, a testament to our dedicated team and unwavering values,” expressed John Duda, CEO of SummitET. “This award embodies our strategic efforts to recruit, retain, and empower veterans, acknowledging their invaluable contributions and unique skill sets that both strengthen our organizational capabilities and set us apart in the preparedness field.”
SummitET joins 838 other companies from 49 states, plus the District of Columbia, who have shown a commitment to hiring veterans and ensuring long-term career and growth plan that utilizes diverse skills acquired through military service.
Recipients of the 2024 HIRE Vets Medallion Award meet rigorous employment and veteran integration assistance criteria, including veteran hiring and retention percentages; availability of veteran-specific resources; leadership programming for veterans; dedicated human resource efforts; pay compensation and tuition assistance programs for veterans.
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) is a Florida-based, veteran-owned preparedness solutions company that provides proven full spectrum solutions to threats facing U.S. and international government and non-government organizations, as well as private entities through industry-leading experts and impeccable customer service.
The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is earned by businesses that demonstrate unparalleled commitment to attracting, hiring and retaining veterans. The 2025 HIRE Vets Medallion Award application period will open to employers on Jan. 31, 2025. For more information about the program and the application process, visit HIREVets.gov.
There are different awards for large employers (500-plus employees), medium employers (51-499 employees), and small employers (50 or fewer employees). Additionally, there are two award tiers: platinum and gold.
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) experts are attending the 2024 National Homeland Security Conference (NHSC) in Miami Beach, Florida from July 22 to 25. The NHSC brings together professionals in Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Fire and Emergency...
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) experts will be presenting at the 34th annual National Radiological Emergency Preparedness Conference (NREP) in Dallas, Texas from April 29 to May 2, 2024. The mission of NREP is “to provide a professional forum for...
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) experts are attending the 12th Annual Joint Civil and DoD CBRN Symposium in Washington D.C. March 13 – 14, 2024. This year’s symposium will convene senior level experts from across the military, federal government, state...
Today’s emergency managers are tasked with navigating an ever-increasing array of threats, from natural disasters to technological hazards, while coordinating response efforts across multiple agencies and stakeholders. Here, we delve into some of the most pressing pain points that these professionals face in their mission to safeguard communities.
Whether it’s a lack of funding, insufficient staffing, or inadequate equipment, emergency managers often find themselves trying to do more with less. Resource constraints can severely hamper the ability to plan effectively, respond swiftly, and recover efficiently from disasters.
Emergency management departments frequently struggle with budget cuts and limited financial resources. These shortfalls can impact everything from preparedness initiatives to disaster response capabilities. Without adequate funding, it becomes challenging to invest in essential training, acquire necessary technology, or even maintain basic operational readiness.
It can also be challenging to attract and retain skilled personnel. The demanding nature of the job, coupled with often modest compensation, can lead to high turnover rates and a shortage of qualified emergency management professionals, this affects day-to-day operations and the overall resilience of the community.
Effective emergency management requires seamless collaboration between local, state, federal, and sometimes international entities. However, differing priorities, communication barriers, and jurisdictional disputes can complicate these efforts.
During a crisis, clear and timely communication is vital, yet interoperability between various agencies’ communication systems can be lacking. This can lead to delays in response, misallocation of resources, and ultimately, a less effective disaster management effort.
Furthermore, confusion over roles and responsibilities can lead to inefficiencies and even conflicts that impede the overall response effort. Establishing clear protocols and agreements before a disaster strike is crucial.
While technology has the potential to revolutionize emergency management, it also presents its own set of difficulties.
In today’s data-driven world, emergency managers have access to vast amounts of information which can be both valuable and overwhelming. Sifting through and analyzing large datasets to make informed decisions in real-time is difficult, particularly during a rapidly unfolding crisis.
As reliance on digital systems grows, so does the risk of cyber-attacks. Emergency management infrastructure, including communication networks and data storage systems, can be vulnerable to cyber threats. Protecting these systems is critical to ensuring that emergency responses are not disrupted by malicious actors.
Engaging the community is a cornerstone of effective emergency management, yet it remains a challenging task. Building trust, raising awareness, and encouraging preparedness among the public requires ongoing effort and innovative strategies.
Despite efforts to educate communities, many individuals remain unaware of potential hazards or unprepared to respond effectively when disaster strikes. Overcoming this requires targeted outreach and education programs that resonate with diverse audiences.
Simultaneously, emergency managers must work diligently to build and maintain strong relationships with community members.
Learn how applying the IDEA Model to you communications can help improve community engagement.
Despite these challenges, the future of emergency management holds promise. Investing in robust training programs, fostering collaboration across agencies, leveraging new technologies, and engaging communities more effectively can all contribute to overcoming obstacles in the field. By addressing these issues head-on, emergency managers can enhance their ability to protect and serve their communities in times of crisis.
SummitET can relieve some of the burdens your emergency management team may face. We specialize in designing, developing, conducting, and evaluating preparedness training courses, exercises, and senior-level workshops for government and private organizations. Our greatest strength is the experience and qualifications of our HSEEP Trained team. Nearly all of our subject matter experts are former members of federal or state/local agencies with crisis management experience.
Contact us to learn more.
As part of our commitment to promoting emergency preparedness, we are attending the upcoming International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Annual Conference in Colorado Springs, CO. Join us at our booth to meet our experts and learn more about our innovative preparedness solutions.
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) experts are attending the IAEM 72nd Annual Conference and EMEX in Colorado Springs, Colorado from November 15 to 21, 2024.
This multi-day training and educational event offers benefits to emergency management professionals in all levels of government, the private sector, and non-government agencies. The goal of the IAEM Annual Conference is to improve attendees’ knowledge, competency level, and collaborative skills by attracting relevant high-profile speakers to address current threats and practical solutions.
SummitET’s Director of Radiological Solutions and Regulatory Affairs, Angela Leek, PhD, CHP, earned a Gold Certificate of Recognition for her submission in this year’s Poster Showcase:
HAZMAT Technician Radiological Incident Response Readiness: Assessing Mental Model Gaps
Tuesday, November 19, 10:15 – 11:00 am
Broadmoor Hall Foyer
Director of Radiological Solutions and Regulatory Affairs
If you’re attending IAEM, we welcome you to join us at the poster showcase during the morning program break on Tuesday, November 19. Posters will be displayed in the Broadmoor Hall Foyer outside the EMEX.
SummitET leverages global experience and public, private, and emergency management subject matter expertise to provide exercise and training support in the areas of emergency preparedness, critical infrastructure protection, strategic communications, and radiological and regulatory programs technical support. Our team of subject matter experts comes from diverse fields, including emergency management, health physics, homeland security, strategic communications, law enforcement, fire services/EMT, nuclear specialties, and more.
Conference attendees can connect with SummitET experts to discuss preparedness solutions for current and emerging threats, including exercises, training, and plan development.
Find SummitET experts at the IAEM EMEX, Booth #515.
Executive Vice President
Director of Radiological Solutions and Regulatory Affairs
Director of Quality Assurance | Program Manager
Schedule a time on this calendar to meet with our experts at SummitET Booth #515 at the EMEX.
Leave us a message and we’ll contact you to discuss how we can help you better prepare.
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) experts are attending the 2024 National Homeland Security Conference (NHSC) in Miami Beach, Florida from July 22 to 25. The NHSC brings together professionals in Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Fire and Emergency...
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) experts will be presenting at the 34th annual National Radiological Emergency Preparedness Conference (NREP) in Dallas, Texas from April 29 to May 2, 2024. The mission of NREP is “to provide a professional forum for...
Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) experts are attending the 12th Annual Joint Civil and DoD CBRN Symposium in Washington D.C. March 13 – 14, 2024. This year’s symposium will convene senior level experts from across the military, federal government, state...