EMEAA Mentorship Program
Grow Your Career. Strengthen Your Leadership. Build Lasting Connections.
The Emergency Management External Affairs Association (EMEAA) Mentorship Program connects emerging and experienced emergency management communications professionals to foster professional growth, leadership development, and knowledge sharing.
Whether you're beginning your career or looking to expand your expertise, our mentorship program provides personalized guidance from professionals who have worked in crisis communications, public information, and emergency management.
About the Program
The EMEAA Mentorship Program is designed to strengthen the emergency management external affairs profession by connecting experienced practitioners with professionals seeking to grow their careers.
Participants receive guidance on career development, crisis communications, media relations, public information, leadership, and professional networking through meaningful one-on-one mentoring relationships.
The program is managed by experienced emergency management external affairs professionals who are committed to developing the next generation of communicators.
Why Participate?
For Mentees
Gain practical advice from experienced professionals.
Benefits include:
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Career guidance and planning
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Crisis communications coaching
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External affairs best practices
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Public information and Joint Information Center (JIC) insights
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Professional networking opportunities
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Leadership development
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Personalized professional development recommendations
For Mentors
Help shape the future of the profession while sharing your knowledge and experience.
Benefits include:
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Give back to the emergency management community
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Develop leadership and coaching skills
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Expand your professional network
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Support the next generation of emergency management communicators
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Contribute to the growth of EMEAA
How the Program Works
Each mentorship relationship is thoughtfully matched based on:
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Professional experience
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Career goals
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Areas of expertise
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Communication style
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Geographic proximity (when practical)
Once matched, mentors and mentees develop a mentorship agreement outlining goals, communication preferences, and meeting expectations.
Formal mentorships last one year, with participants expected to connect at least once each month. Meetings may take place virtually, by phone, or in person when possible.
Areas of Mentorship
Mentorships are customized to meet individual career goals.
Common topics include:
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Crisis communications
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Public Information Officer (PIO) development
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Media relations
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Message development
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Rumor management
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Social media strategy
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Spokesperson skills
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Joint Information Center (JIC) operations
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Career advancement
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Professional certifications
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Conference and training recommendations
Program Resources
Mentors help participants identify resources that support their professional development, including:
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FEMA Public Information Officer courses
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Emergency management conferences
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Crisis communications books
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Professional development opportunities
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High-performing emergency management social media examples
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Agency-specific recommendations
Resources are tailored to each mentee's experience and career goals.
Program Expectations
Successful mentorships are built on professionalism, communication, and mutual respect.
Participants agree to:
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Meet at least once per month
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Establish clear goals
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Maintain professional boundaries
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Respect confidentiality
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Follow the EMEAA Code of Conduct
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Communicate openly with the Program Manager if challenges arise
The Program Manager supports each mentoring relationship throughout the program and assists with matching, feedback, and re-pairing if necessary.
Who Should Apply?
The EMEAA Mentorship Program is ideal for:
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Emergency Management Public Information Officers
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External Affairs professionals
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Crisis communicators
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Public affairs specialists
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Emergency managers interested in communications
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Students and recent graduates pursuing emergency management communications careers
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Experienced professionals interested in mentoring others
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the program?
Each formal mentorship lasts one year, with a minimum expectation of one meeting each month.
How are mentors matched?
Matches are based on experience, career goals, expertise, communication preferences, and location whenever practical.
Can meetings be virtual?
Yes. Meetings may take place by phone, video conference, or in person.
Is this a job placement program?
No. The program focuses on professional development and mentoring. It does not provide employment placement or guarantee promotions.
What if my mentorship isn't a good fit?
Participants may contact the Program Manager at any time to discuss concerns. If appropriate, a new mentor or mentee can be assigned.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you're looking for guidance or ready to share your expertise, the EMEAA Mentorship Program is an investment in your professional future.
Applications for mentors and mentees are accepted throughout the year.
Share your experience and help strengthen the emergency management external affairs profession.
Learn from experienced professionals and accelerate your career.