Emergency Management Internships and How They Contribute To Professionalization Creating structure and identifying a return on investment Marc Khatchadourian, BA, EMT Emergency Management Graduate Student North Dakota State University

Overview 1)Big Picture Considerations – Professionalization – Applied-Academic Balance – Competencies 2)Tangible Recommendations – 12 Month Schedule – Establishing a Mentor – Engagement in Core Areas

1) Big Picture Considerations a)Professionalization – Return on investment: Why should we invest in internships? – Cost Benefit b)Applied-Academic Balance – Marrying theory and practice c)Competencies – Broad exposure and base of knowledge

1) Big Picture Considerations Cont. d) Paid vs. Unpaid – Systemic disadvantage – Cautions of unpaid internships e) Participation NOT Observation – Encourage input and involvement f) Making partnerships and taking initiative – Inherent to how we operate

1) Tangible Recommendations a) Internship Planning Schedule 10 to 12 Months Before Internship: What agency and academic program are looking for Timeframe/schedule Background check and security clearance Solicitation for applicants

1) Tangible Recommendations Cont. 10 Months Before Internship: Assign a mentor Interviews, shadowing Begin background check and clearance

1) Tangible Recommendations Cont. 6 Months Before Internship: Involve Intern, Advisor, and Employer Housing Facility Access Parking Pay Information Dress Code

1) Tangible Recommendations Cont. Week One of Internship: Facility Tour(s) Access and Familiarization

1) Tangible Recommendations Cont. b) Establishing the Role of the Mentor – Mentor can help with organization familiarization – Opens up time for the boss

1) Tangible Recommendations Cont. c) Participation and Engagement in Core Areas Policy/Regulatory Finance Region/Dept. Meetings EOC Activations Training Exercises/Drills Community Meetings EOPs Risk Assessments Public Information Bus. Continuity/COG

1) Tangible Recommendations Cont. d) Student Internship Checklist – Additional items?

Discussion and Thank You! (cell) OR Marc Khatchadourian, BA, EMT Emergency Management Graduate Student North Dakota State University