UNESCO Forms Strategic Partnership with PeakPSG and SummitET to Advance Global Disaster Risk Reduction

UNESCO Forms Strategic Partnership with PeakPSG and SummitET to Advance Global Disaster Risk Reduction

Collaboration aims to strengthen community resilience and establish adaptable disaster management frameworks worldwide 

St. Petersburg, FL — UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) established a new partnership with PeakPSGTM and SummitET® on February 2, 2026. This collaboration underscores the critical importance of unified efforts between intergovernmental organizations, governments, civil society, and private sector entities to achieve U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, with a special focus on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and resilience-building. 

UNESCO and summitet discussing global risk reduction

The partnership is designed to enhance global preparedness and reduce the impact of disasters by establishing a scalable, interoperable, and globally adaptable disaster management framework. This framework will be implemented at the local level in many countries but will involve national, regional, and local jurisdictions, ensuring communities benefit from improved risk reduction strategies. 

UNESCO, PeakPSG, and SummitET will collaborate on the development of standardized disaster plans, preparedness protocols, and interoperable data and communications systems. Leveraging advanced technologies, including the Previstar® platform, the initiative will enable integrated operations and resource coordination during crises, helping communities build robust resilience against future disasters. 

Key objectives include: 

  • Establishing city and county DRR cells to localize resilience efforts. 
  • Co-producing risk assessments, contingency plans, and conducting annual preparedness exercises. 
  • Aligning all activities with existing national strategies to ensure cohesive and effective disaster management. 

This strategic alliance is set to deliver a transformative, adaptable disaster management model, empowering communities worldwide to mitigate disaster impacts and secure a more resilient future. 

Agencies and countries interested in participating or accessing these services may engage directly with UNESCO field offices under the DRR initiative.  

Private companies, non-government organizations, and other interested partners who wish to contribute or support these disaster risk reduction initiatives are encouraged to get involved. For more information on how to participate or make donations, please contact Partners@PeakPSG.com. 

  

About UNESCO 

UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) is a specialized agency of the United Nations committed to advancing education, science, culture, and communication worldwide. By fostering global cooperation and innovative partnerships—including with the private sector—UNESCO works to build resilient societies and strengthen our shared humanity. The organization places a strong emphasis on disaster risk reduction (DRR) and resilience-building, mobilizing resources and expertise to help communities prepare for and respond to the challenges of an increasingly complex world. 

About PeakPSGTM and SummitET® 

PeakPSG, together with its affiliated company SummitET, delivers comprehensive preparedness and risk reduction solutions designed to empower governments and communities to enhance resilience and minimize the impact of disasters. Leveraging in-depth technical expertise, specialized training, innovative planning tools, and advanced technologies, PeakPSG and SummitET support clients in building robust disaster management capabilities and fostering safer, more resilient communities worldwide. 

About Previstar® 

Previstar is a software platform designed to help organizations anticipate risk, strengthen preparedness, and improve decision-making before, during, and after critical events. Built with input from practitioners across public safety, emergency management, and operational leadership, Previstar brings planning, analysis, and collaboration into a single, intuitive system.

SummitET News

SummitET, Montgomery County Expand Collaboration to Bolster Public Health and Safety Preparedness

SummitET, Montgomery County Expand Collaboration to Bolster Public Health and Safety Preparedness

Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) is pleased to announce the extension of its partnership with the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services Office of Public Health (OPH) and Montgomery County Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Since beginning work with Montgomery County, SummitET has assisted in developing a countywide framework designed to improve clarity in roles, responsibilities, and collaborative processes during emergency responses. The extension allows SummitET and the County to continue building upon this foundation through additional engagement, planning support, and further refinement of tools and resources developed during the initial project period.

“By strengthening emergency preparedness collaboration across departments, we’re building more resilient communities and ensuring every resident benefits from a stronger, more connected system,” said Christina Miller, Administrator, Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services Office of Public Health.

Under the extended agreement, SummitET will continue to facilitate countywide collaboration, guide stakeholders through targeted workshops, and support the County in validating and strengthening its emergency preparedness structures. The ongoing work will also include summarizing insights and lessons learned to help inform future planning and decision‑making across departments and leadership.

“We value the trust Montgomery County has placed in SummitET,” stated Adam Montella, SummitET COO.  “Their proactive approach to preparedness and commitment to continuous improvement makes this partnership both meaningful and impactful. We are honored to support the County as it advances its goals for a more resilient and coordinated emergency response framework.”

SummitET remains dedicated to providing evidence‑informed guidance and training that enhances readiness while safeguarding sensitive information and operational integrity. The extended partnership underscores the shared commitment of SummitET, OPH and DPS to ensuring that Montgomery County remains well‑positioned to respond to evolving public health and safety challenges.

Montgomery county preparedness training

Customer Success Story

Montgomery County Office of Public Health

SummitET News

SummitET Receives the 2025 Hire Vets Medallion Award from the U.S. Department of Labor

SummitET Receives the 2025 Hire Vets Medallion Award from the U.S. Department of Labor

St. Petersburg, FL

The U.S. Department of Labor has recognized SummitET as one of the record-breaking 887 recipients of the 2025 HIRE Vets Medallion Award. SummitET earned the gold award after applying earlier this year. The Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act (HIRE Vets Act) Medallion Award Program is the only federal award program that recognizes employers who successfully recruit, hire, and retain veterans.

a gold and a platinum colored medallion on an American flag background
man in suit jacket smiling

John Duda, CEO

“Receiving our fifth HIRE Vets Medallion Award is a true honor,” said John Duda, CEO of SummitET. “This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to recruiting, supporting, and advancing veterans within our team. The exceptional experience and skills of our Veterans not only enhance our organization but also distinguish us as leaders in the preparedness industry.”

SummitET joins 886 other companies from 48 states, plus the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico, who have shown a commitment to hiring veterans, but also ensuring that they have a long-term career and growth plan that uses the diverse skills they acquired through their military service.

Recipients of the 2025 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. Over 2,200 employers have earned a total of 5,371 HIRE Vets Medallion Awards since 2019.

SummitET previously received the HIRE Vets Medallion Award in 2024, 2023, 2021, and 2020.

About SummitET  

SummitET® is a veteran-owned, Florida-based preparedness solutions company that provides proven, full-spectrum solutions to threats facing government, non-government, and private organizations through industry-leading experts. In addition to expert-led custom trainings, exercises, consulting, and plan and policy development, SummitET also offers its software solution, Previstar®, which delivers the same high-quality preparedness and response capabilities. Both SummitET’s expert services and Previstar software equip organizations and their people to effectively manage and respond to crisis situations.

About the HIRE Vets Medallion Program 

The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is earned by businesses that demonstrate unparalleled commitment to attracting, hiring and retaining veterans. The 2026 HIRE Vets Medallion Award application period will open to employers on Jan. 31, 2026. For more information about the program and the application process, visit HIREVets.gov.

SummitET News

Adam Montella Appointed as New President of ACP Mid-Florida Chapter

Adam Montella Appointed as New President of ACP Mid-Florida Chapter

Leadership Transition Marks New Era for Renowned Business Continuity Organization

The Mid-Florida Chapter of the Association of Contingency Planners (ACP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Adam Montella as its new Chapter President. Adam, who also serves as Chief Operations Officer at SummitET, steps into the role following the tenure of Eric Olson, who led the chapter for over two decades, guiding its growth and strengthening its reputation within the business continuity and disaster recovery community.

Founded in January 1993 and officially recognized by the Association of Contingency Planners in February of the same year, the ACP Mid-Florida Chapter has served as a cornerstone for professionals seeking to enhance their organization’s resiliency and contingency strategies. The chapter proudly serves members across a broad region, reaching as far west as Tampa and as far south as Miami, reflecting its commitment to supporting professionals throughout Central and South Florida.

The chapter regularly hosts monthly meetings, fostering a collaborative environment where industry experts and newcomers alike can exchange ideas and best practices. The first meeting is complimentary for guests, with ongoing membership required for continued participation in events and networking opportunities.

Adam Montella headshot

“I am honored to follow in the footsteps of Eric Olson, whose leadership has been instrumental in building this supportive community,” said Adam Montella. “I look forward to working with our members to continue advancing the field of business continuity and disaster recovery throughout the Mid-Florida region.”

Professionals interested in learning more about the ACP Mid-Florida Chapter or attending an upcoming meeting are encouraged to visit https://acp-international.com/midflorida for additional information.

SummitET News

SummitET Relaunches Previstar® with Major AI Enhancements

SummitET Relaunches Previstar® with Major AI Enhancements

Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®), a leader in crisis and emergency preparedness solutions, today announced its acquisition of Previstar® Continual Preparedness System (CPS), a proven emergency management software platform. The acquisition marks a strategic step forward in providing innovative, technology-driven preparedness and response capabilities through both industry-expert knowledge, AI and machine learning to customers worldwide.

With over 25 years of real-world use, Previstar CPS is a modular platform built to support all phases of emergency management—planning, preparedness, response, and recovery. Now under SummitET’s leadership, CPS is being completely reimagined to meet the demands of modern emergency management. Enhancements include a redesigned, user-friendly interface and a next-generation architecture that integrates artificial intelligence (AI), historical incident data, and dynamic disaster intelligence.

man in suit jacket smiling

“Previstar CPS provides a comprehensive solution that supports the full incident lifecycle,” said John Duda, CEO of SummitET. “This software allows customers to integrate planning and response through cutting-edge technology with the support of industry-experts to better serve jurisdictions across the world.”

SummitET’s new Chief Technology Officer, Himadri Banerjee, will lead the CPS redevelopment. Banerjee—also the original developer of Previstar—brings more than 25 years of experience in software innovation and has led the development of enterprise-grade SaaS platforms for Fortune 500 companies and national governments.

Senior Vice President Himadri Banerjee

Mark Amann, SummitET’s Chief Products Officer, will oversee product alignment with the operational needs of emergency management professionals. With deep expertise in homeland security, incident response, and multi-agency coordination, Amann will ensure that the reengineered platform meets evolving challenges across jurisdictions and sectors.

Mark Amann Headshot
Previstar continual preparedness system software

The enhanced CPS platform will continue to feature its four core modules—each aligned with the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS):

  • Plan Manager: Streamlined event planning with integrated emergency management workflows.
  • Incident Manager: Real-time command tools and resources for crisis response and coordination.
  • Resource Manager: Rapid resource identification and deployment capabilities.
  • Geographic Information System (GIS): Strategic situational awareness using real-time geospatial data.

To learn more or schedule a personalized demo, visit SummitET.com/Previstar. Join SummitET at booth #212 during the National Homeland Security Conference for a live preview of the reengineered Previstar CPS.

About SummitET

SummitET® is a Florida-based, veteran-owned preparedness solutions company that provides expert-driven solutions to government and private entities worldwide.

SummitET News

SummitET® to Showcase Previstar® and Share Capabilities at the 2025 National Homeland Security Conference

SummitET® to Showcase Previstar® and Share Capabilities at the 2025 National Homeland Security Conference

Summit Exercises and Training LLC (SummitET®) is proud to announce its participation and contributions to the 2025 National Homeland Security Conference (NHSC) which takes place in Washington DC, August 25-28, 2025. The NHSC serves as a premier event for professionals in Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Fire, and Emergency Management, offering a platform to explore new trends, tools, and resources that support their mission.

As a recognized leader in emergency preparedness and response solutions, SummitET will showcase its wide range of professional consulting services, which include technology-driven training, national-level response planning, workshops, scenario-based exercises, and WMD/CBRNE and natural disaster emergency response guidance. These offerings aim to reduce risks, mitigate disaster impacts, and enhance resilience across communities through both expertise and a new end-to-end emergency management and response system software, Previstar®.

conference booth with chairs, table, and audio equipment for a podcast recording

In addition to exhibiting at the event, SummitET will conduct live interviews at its booth for its preparedness podcast, “Bridging the Gap.” These interviews will delve into emerging practices in homeland security, providing insights into industry challenges, trends, and best practices.

To participate in the Podcast during the 2025 NHSC, fill out this form.

Participate in Our Podcast

Bridging the Gap podcast logo 

Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Spotify, Amazon Music, or YouTube.

Join Our Panel Presentation

A highlight of SummitET’s industry expertise will be a presentation by John Duda, SummitET’s CEO, and Scott J. Glick, SummitET’s General Counsel and the DOJ’s former Director of Preparedness and Response in its National Security Division. Duda and Glick will participate in a panel entitled “Methods to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Tabletop Exercises” which will also include insight and analysis by former FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor. The panel will discuss current methodologies used to evaluate tabletop exercises (TTXs), as well as a new quantitative tool which can be used.

“Methods to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Tabletop Exercises”

Panelists:

John Duda, SummitET

Scott J. Glick, SummitET

Peter T. Gaynor, Bright Harbor

Emily Adams, Office of Radiological Security, NNSA

Wednesday, August 27, 2025, 1:15 pm EST

Operations-based exercises often utilize quantitative tools for evaluation, such as measuring response times. However, tabletop exercises, which are discussion-based, require more nuanced evaluation methods. Current approaches, such as the Likert scale, frequently focus on exercise delivery or offer only general conclusions, limiting their reliability.

This panel discussion will critically examine existing methodologies, including the Homeland Security Exercise Evaluation Program (HSEEP), and highlight the need for new, cost-effective tools to more accurately measure the impact of TTXs on organizational preparedness. These advancements could pave the way for the establishment of an industry-standard evaluation system.

John Duda

John Duda

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Scott Glick VP and General Counsel

Scott Glick, JD

General Counsel

See the full Conference Agenda.

SummitET is excited to contribute its expertise to the 2025 NHSC and engage with industry professionals to advance the field of homeland security. By presenting innovative ideas and fostering meaningful discussions, SummitET reaffirms its commitment to building safer, more resilient communities. Join us in Washington DC to explore the future of emergency preparedness and response.

 

Ready to discuss opportunities with our experts?

Fill out the form below and we will reach out to schedule a meeting at our booth.

Meet Our Experts

Adam Montella, Senior Vice President

Adam Montella

Chief Operations Officer
Mark Amann Headshot

Mark Amann

Chief Products Officer
Ron Crane

Ron Crane

Associate Vice President | Senior SME, Exercises

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