The Division of Emergency Management designs, develops, and implements a variety of training and exercise programs to test the capabilities of emergency responders in Montgomery County. The Division also works closely with the response community to schedule and implement the training required for all levels of emergency management certification.

For additional information on training and/or planning an exercise, contact Training and Preparedness Coordinator Heather Stem at hstem@montcopa.org.

PEMA Certification Levels and Required Training

Emergency Management Coordinators

Appointed municipal Emergency Management Coordinators are required to obtain the Basic Certification within one (1) year of appointment and the Advanced Certification within three (3) years of appointment. The Professional level is optional but encouraged.

Deputy Coordinators and Staff

There is no requirement for Deputy Emergency Management Coordinators or staff to achieve certifications. However, they are encouraged to do so.

To learn more about the training requirements, view the 2017 PEMA Certification and Training Directive.

IS- courses are available online through FEMA's Independent Study Program (click hyperlinks above). G- and ICS- courses are delivered in person. To view G- and ICS- training opportunities offered by the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety and regional partners, click here.