Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Community Volunteer Service
Continuing Education
Timeline
Generic

Stephanie Couturier

Brandon,Canada

Summary

Dedicated emergency management professional with a history of meeting organizational goals utilizing consistent and organized practices. Skilled in working under pressure and adapting to new situations and challenges to best enhance emergency preparedness and resiliency.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience

Work History

Divisional Director of Emergency Disaster Services (EDS)

The Salvation Army
10.2022 - Current


  • Increase divisional emergency response efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing innovative solutions.
  • Provide leadership and oversight for major initiatives, to ensure timely completion while adhering to budgetary constraints.
  • Strategic development of program initiatives based on broad guidance and direction.
  • Collaborate with the Divisional Executive Board and leadership team to establish key expected achievements.
  • Implement key expected achievements to monitor program initiatives, identify areas for growth, and execute strategies for success.
  • Establish robust risk reduction strategies to safeguard against potential operational challenges and disruptions.
  • Ensure program activities and service delivery are complaint with provincial and federal legislation and regulations.
  • Establish and implement clear and consistent policies and training programs for staff members and volunteers.
  • Employ data-driven decision-making to optimize operational efficiency.
  • Provide oversight in daily planning, coordination, and administration for divisional operations.
  • Collaborate with communications team to develop and delivery key messages to the public through various media campaigns.
  • Mentor practicum students, provide direction on the development of research projects, and monitor and assess student performance.
  • Present information as a subject matter expert during meetings at the municipal, provincial and national levels.
  • Expand the organization's partner network through diligent research, outreach, and relationship-building efforts.
  • Manage a diverse portfolio of partnerships, maintaining constant communication and providing support as needed.
  • Enable seamless collaboration between internal and external partners by establishing strategic communication channels and processes.
  • Lead cross-functional project teams to execute partnership initiatives, ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality results.
  • Mentor junior team members in effective partnership management techniques, fostering professional development with the organization.
  • Leverage community events and conferences to cultivate new connections and foster existing relationships with key stakeholders.
  • Champion problem-solving approaches to address potential partnership challenges, mitigate risk, and maintain positive relationships.
  • Develop and implement comprehensive short- and long- term engagement strategies to increase volunteer retention and reduce turnover.
  • Exercise independent judgment in recruiting, onboarding, and motivating volunteers to maximize performance.
  • Oversee the management of 300 volunteers.
  • Recruit, interview, and train new employees.
  • Facilitate onboarding sessions, and on-the-job training for new hires bolstering position knowledge and skillset.
  • Optimize employee performance by conducting regular performance evaluations and providing personalized coaching for staff development.
  • Mentor team members for career advancement.
  • Champion diversity and inclusion efforts, resulting in an inclusive environment that fosters creativity and innovation among employees and volunteers from various backgrounds.
  • Manage employee relations issues professionally, resolving conflicts efficiently while maintain confidentiality at all times.
  • In consultation with the Human Resource department, monitor and handle employee and volunteer claims involving performance-based and harassment incidents.
  • Coordinate technical training and personal development for staff members and volunteers.
  • Establish effective succession planning strategies to prepare future leaders in line with organizational objectives.
  • Research funding streams, such as government programs, private sector, and philanthropic donors.
  • Secured $700,000 in grant funding during 2023 Q4 to bolster community resilience and increase program delivery throughout communities within Ontario.
  • Maximize funding potential by tailoring grant applications to the specific guidelines and priorities of each funder.
  • Maintain compliance with funder requirements by diligently monitory project progress and submitting timely reports.
  • Demonstrate adaptability in response to shifting priorities in funder requirements and adjusting proposal strategies and necessary.
  • Develop comprehensive budgets and closely monitor financial performance and resource usage to ensure fiscal responsibility.
  • Reduce operating costs through careful analysis of divisional expenditures and implementation of cost-saving measures where appropriate.
  • Reduce finance inconsistencies while assessing and verifying billing invoices and expense reports.

Personal Trainer

Self-employed
01.2014 - Current
  • Conduct comprehensive fitness assessments, setting realistic goals for each client's unique needs and abilities
  • Improve client fitness levels by developing personalized workout plans and monitoring progress
  • Developed specialized programs for athletes of all levels to reach competition goals
  • Adapt workout routines for special populations such as seniors or those recovering from injuries ensuring safety while still challenging their abilities
  • Explain exercise modifications and contraindicated movements to participants with a history of injury
  • Educate clients on proper exercise techniques, reducing the risk of injury during workouts
  • Demonstrate proper technique for exercises to avoid injuries
  • Implement nutritional guidance alongside physical training plans, yielding more comprehensive results for clients' overall well-being
  • Increase client retention through consistent communication, motivation, and support
  • Foster a positive workout environment with upbeat energy and a professional demeanor
  • Motivate clients to stay on track with fitness goals with a positive and friendly approach
  • Assisted individuals in setting achievable fitness goals, and monitoring progress for success
  • Maintain detailed records of all client interactions including progress notes, and goal-tracking updates allowing for easy assessment adjustments
  • Utilize an effective record-keeping system for tracking customer information
  • Grew customer base through word-of-mouth referrals based on customer satisfaction and results
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of fitness training methods to an informed approach
  • Enhanced gym member satisfaction by providing one-on-one consultations and group training sessions.

Safety Coordinator of Emergency Preparedness

Koch Fertilizer Canada, ULC
03.2021 - 10.2022
  • Researched and devised new safety initiatives and strategies to improve safety performance
  • Assessed the value of safety programs, and applied modifications and improvements to achieve targeted goals
  • Developed new emergency response training programs to address performance and knowledge issues
  • Coordinated emergency response plans and drills to increase preparedness and address issues promptly
  • Led emergency response drills, ensuring staff readiness for various emergencies including fires, chemical spills, and medical crises
  • Responded to any emergencies with utmost efficiency
  • Conducted safety training and education to employees to increase awareness of safety hazards and empower employees to work safely
  • Designed programs, policies, and procedures that were implemented to reduce or eliminate hazards and increase organizational resiliency
  • Collaborated with other departments to integrate safety in all aspects of the organization
  • Enhanced workplace safety by conducting thorough risk assessments and implementing corrective actions
  • Conducted regular site inspections, identifying potential hazards and ensuring prompt resolution
  • Improved safety compliance by creating comprehensive safety policies and procedures in alignment with provincial and federal regulations
  • Reduced accident rates through the development and implementation of effective safety training programs
  • Coordinated with external vendors for equipment maintenance, guaranteeing optimal functionality of all safety systems
  • Communicated safety performance and progress to management and employees to provide up-to-date information
  • Liaised with management and employees to enable smooth communication regarding safety procedures
  • Created an open line of communication between employees and management regarding safety concerns, fostering a collaborative approach to problem-solving
  • Developed and implemented safety policies and procedures to promote workplace safety
  • Provided new-employee health and safety orientations and developed materials for presentations
  • Conducted periodic audits of safety initiatives in place, identifying areas for improvement and implementing appropriate actions to maintain best practices
  • Inspected worksites, practices, and gear for compliance with established safety standards
  • Coached employees, managers and executives on effective safety policies
  • Provided guidance and resources to employees to maintain safety procedures and enhance protection.

Wildfire Rappel/ Helitack Crew Member

Alberta Agriculture and Forestry (AAF)
04.2016 - 10.2020
  • Enhanced wildfire containment by coordinating and executing strategic fire line construction
  • Reduced wildfire damage to property by employing effective structure protection measures
  • Supported incident management teams with accurate mapping, GPS tracking, and real-time information sharing
  • Maintained close contact with dispatch to receive and share information about current fires, equipment movements, and incoming personnel
  • Evaluated situations at emergency sites to determine and execute the most effective methods for saving lives and property
  • Expedited resource deployment during large-scale incidents by assisting in logistical coordination efforts
  • Evaluated areas after containing fires to identify and suppress hot spots
  • Patrolled burnt areas after fires to locate and eliminate hot spots that could flare or rekindle
  • Collaborated with interagency partners to share resources, knowledge, and strategies for more effective wildfire response
  • Prepared incident reports detailing personnel, location and results of each call
  • Boosted situational awareness among firefighters through consistent monitoring of weather conditions and fire behavior patterns
  • Improved crew safety through diligent hazard assessment and risk management during incidents
  • Facilitated safe aerial operations as a knowledgeable crew leader and helitack/rappel crew member proficient in helicopter safety protocols and procedures
  • Upheld high standards of professionalism while interacting with the public during prescribed burns or emergencies
  • Promoted public awareness of wildfire dangers by participating in community outreach programs and events
  • Assisted in the prevention of fires through public education programs
  • Conducted fire drills and trained recruits in the use of firefighting equipment
  • Oversaw equipment and vehicle upkeep to maintain emergency readiness
  • Cut and cleared brush to create fire lines using axes and chainsaws
  • Conducted thorough tests and inspections of gear, equipment and tools to stay ready for every type of fire
  • Operated pumping engine to direct water pressure in hose and nozzle for most efficient operation
  • Established water supplies, connected hoses, and directed water onto fires
  • Effectively supported fire suppression by setting up and maintaining water supply lines.

Rescue Technician

Elite Safety Services Inc.
02.2015 - 04.2016
  • Optimized rescue operations with effective communication and coordination among team members
  • Collaborated closely with other emergency services personnel to provide seamless support during complex incidents
  • Implemented strategic plans for incident management to streamline response efforts and mitigate risks associated with rescue operations
  • Enhanced situational awareness by collecting and analyzing critical information at the scene of an emergency
  • Expedited incident stabilization through efficient extrication techniques and patient care procedures
  • Demonstrated adaptability in various environments, including confined spaces, high angles, and hazardous materials situations
  • Initiated first aid measures to alleviate further injury and prepared victims for transport to medical facilities
  • Maintained accurate records of all rescue-related activities for accountability and continuous improvement purposes
  • Leveraged specialized tools such as hydraulic cutters, spreaders, airbags, tripods, winches, and rigging systems for optimal results in challenging rescue scenarios
  • Prepared incident reports detailing personnel, location and results of each call
  • Ensured operational readiness by participating in regular training exercises and skill development sessions
  • Participated in post-incident debriefings and after-action reviews, identifying areas of improvement and lessons learned for continuous enhancement of rescue operations
  • Enhanced team efficiency by conducting thorough equipment inspections and maintenance
  • Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a safe work environment by adhering to strict safety guidelines and reporting potential hazards or concerns promptly
  • Supported fellow technicians through mentorship, sharing best practices, and providing feedback on performance during training exercises and actual incidents
  • Continuously updated knowledge of industry advancements through participation in workshops, conferences, webinars, or other professional development opportunities related to the rescue field
  • Oversaw equipment and vehicle upkeep to maintain emergency readiness.

Emergency Medical Responder

Discovery Safety Services Ltd.
08.2014 - 02.2015
  • Enhanced patient care by providing timely and efficient emergency medical assistance in various situations
  • Improved patient outcomes by performing critical lifesaving interventions such as CPR, AED usage, and airway management
  • Collaborated with paramedics and other healthcare professionals for proper patient assessment and treatment planning
  • Contributed to team efficiency by maintaining clean, organized, and stocked ambulances for optimal readiness at all times
  • Provided compassionate care to patients of diverse backgrounds while addressing their individual needs and concerns
  • Upheld strict adherence to protocols, regulations, and procedures for maintaining a safe working environment for both patients and staff members
  • Participated in ongoing training sessions and workshops to stay current on the latest advancements in emergency medical services
  • Demonstrated strong decision-making skills during high-pressure situations, prioritizing tasks based on urgency
  • Utilized knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathophysiology to make informed decisions regarding appropriate treatment plans
  • Documented accurate patient records following each call for quality assurance purposes and continuity of care within the healthcare system
  • Ensured compliance with local regulations by regularly inspecting equipment for functionality and expiration dates and reporting any issues promptly
  • Supported the professional development of new Emergency Medical Responders by mentoring and sharing knowledge on best practices and procedures
  • Adapted to dynamic situations and adjusted treatment plans as needed when patient conditions changed or additional information became available
  • Prepared patient care reports, medical necessity forms and incident reports to document shift details and enter in database
  • Assessed patient stability, scene safety and communicated nature of injury or illness to treatment team
  • Determined nature and extent of illness and injury for patients and transported to hospital
  • Replaced used linens, blankets and supplies to prepare for calls
  • Evaluated patient vital signs and status to determine care needs using pulse oximeters and electronic vital sign machines
  • Maintained accurate patient records and documentation of treatments to enable tracking history and safeguard information
  • Conducted equipment and vehicle checks to maintain continuous and safe operation
  • Maintained levelheadedness and efficiency in high-pressure situations, effectively prioritizing tasks to save lives and provide medical care
  • Evaluated patient histories to assess and prioritize levels of care
  • Followed all safety protocols and took necessary precautions while providing care.

Education

Certification - Structural Collapse

Manitoba Emergency Services College
Brandon, MB
01.2023

Bachelor of Arts - Applied Disaster and Emergency Studies

Brandon University
Brandon, MB
01.2020

Diploma - Professional Fire Fighter

Texas A&M Engineering Extension Services
College Station, TX
11.2014

Grade 12 French Immersion Diploma -

Neelin High School
Brandon, MB
01.2009

Skills

  • Bilingual in English and French
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook)
  • Strategic Planning
  • Corporate Communications
  • Critical Thinking
  • Stakeholder Management
  • Decision Making
  • Adaptability
  • Project Management
  • Organizational Skills
  • Policy Development
  • Financial Management

Languages

English
French

Community Volunteer Service

  • Canada Task Force 4 Heavy Urban Search and Rescue, Brandon, MB, 2023- Present
  • Brandon Santa Claus & Traveler's Day Parades, Brandon, MB, 2012- Present
  • Samaritan House Christmas Hamper Program, Brandon, MB, 2021
  • Westman Traditional Christmas Dinner, Brandon, MB, 2018, 2021
  • Brandon Humane Society, Brandon, MB, 2015- 2017
  • Big Brother Big Sisters, Brandon, MB, 2001- 2010
  • Clerical Volunteer, Fairview Home, Brandon, MB, 2008- 2009
  • Brandon Regional Health Authority DASH tent, Brandon, MB, 2001- 2009

Continuing Education

  • 2024: Canadian Disaster Response Organization (CDRO), Incident Command System (ICS) 300
  • 2024: Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP), Basics of WebEOC
  • 2024: CDRO, Basic Emergency Management
  • 2022: Stuart Hunt, Radiation Safety Officer
  • 2022: Certified Fire Investigator (CFI), Preventing Occupational Exposures to Carcinogens at the Fire Scene
  • 2022: CFI, The Impact of Ventilation in Building Structures on Fire Development
  • 2021: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), An Introduction to Hazardous Materials
  • 2021: FEMA, Diversity Awareness 2021
  • 2021: FEMA, Public Information Officer Awareness
  • 2021: FEMA, Social Media in Emergency Management
  • 2021: FEMA, An Introduction to Exercise
  • 2021: FEMA, How to be an Exercise Evaluator
  • 2021: FEMA, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and The Incident Command System
  • 2021: FEMA, CERT and the Incident Command System
  • 2021: FEMA, Introduction to CERT
  • 2021: FEMA, Preparing for Mass Casualty Incidents: Guide for Schools, Higher Education and Houses of Worship
  • 2021: FEMA, Introduction to Hazard Mitigation
  • 2021: FEMA, Devolution Planning
  • 2021: FEMA, Emergency Planning for Public Works
  • 2021: FEMA, Local Damage Assessment
  • 2021: FEMA, A-B-C's of Temporary Emergency Power
  • 2021: FEMA, Basic Workplace Security Awareness
  • 2021: FEMA, Retail Security Awareness Understanding the Hidden Hazards
  • 2021: FEMA, Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience: Achieving Results Through Partnership and Collaboration
  • 2021: FEMA, Applications of GIS for Emergency Management
  • 2021: FEMA, Basic Emergency Operations Center Functions
  • 2021: CFI, Accreditation, Certification, and Certificates
  • 2021: CFI, Charting Your Career Path in Fire Investigation
  • 2021: CFI, Critical Evaluation and Testing of Commonly Reported Accidental Causes
  • 2021: CFI, Documenting the Event
  • 2021: CFI, Effective Investigation and Testimony
  • 2021: CFI, Ethics and Fire Investigators
  • 2021: CFI, Explosion Dynamics
  • 2021: CFI, Fire Chemistry
  • 2021: CFI, Fire Flow Analysis
  • 2021: CFI, Fire Investigation for Fire Officers
  • 2021: CFI, Fire Investigator Scene Safety
  • 2021: CFI, Fire Protection Systems
  • 2021: CFI, Fundamentals of Interviewing
  • 2021: CFI, How First Responders Impact the Fire Investigation
  • 2021: CFI, Insurance and the Fire Investigation
  • 2021: CFI, Introduction to Evidence
  • 2021: CFI, Introduction to Youth-Fire Setters
  • 2021: CFI, Investigating Motor Vehicle Fires
  • 2021: CFI, NFPA 1003 and Your Career
  • 2021: CFI, Physical Evidence at the Fire Scene
  • 2021: CFI, Process of Elimination
  • 2021: CFI, Residential Electrical Systems
  • 2021: CFI, Residential Natural Gas Systems
  • 2021: CFI, The HAZWOPER Standard
  • 2021: CFI, The Scientific Method for Fire and Explosion Investigation
  • 2021: CFI, Understanding Undetermined
  • 2021: CFI, Writing the Initial Origin and Cause Report
  • 2020: FEMA, Coordinating Health and Social Services Recovery
  • 2020: FEMA, Introduction to Community Lifelines
  • 2020: FEMA, Introduction to Continuity of Operations
  • 2020: FEMA, Active Shooter: What You Can Do
  • 2020: FEMA, Protecting Critical Infrastructure Against Insider Threats
  • 2020: FEMA, Critical Infrastructure Security: Theft and Diversion- What You Can Do
  • 2020: FEMA, Emergency Management for Senior Officials
  • 2020: FEMA, Community Preparedness Implementing Simple Activities for Everyone
  • 2020: FEMA, Introduction to Public-Private Partnerships
  • 2020: FEMA, Hazardous Materials for Medical Personnel
  • 2020: FEMA, Introduction to Continuity of Operations Planning for Pandemic Influenza
  • 2020: FEMA, Exercise Design and Development
  • 2020: FEMA, Emergency Planning
  • 2020: FEMA, Leadership and Influence
  • 2020: FEMA, Special Event Contingency Planning for Public Safety Agencies
  • 2020: FEMA, Decision Making and Problem-Solving
  • 2020: FEMA, The Role of Voluntary Organizations in Emergency Management
  • 2020: FEMA, Developing and Managing Volunteers
  • 2020: CP Rail, Railroad Awareness
  • 2020: Fertilizer Canada, Anhydrous Ammonia Awareness for First Responders, Anhydrous Ammonia Safe Storage and Handling and Calcium Ammonium Nitrate Security
  • 2020: CN Rail, Railroad Equipment and Railroad Incident Response
  • 2020: Alberta Agriculture & Forestry, ICS Strike Team/Task Force Leader
  • 2018: Alberta Agriculture & Forestry, Wildfire Crew Leader
  • 2018: Alberta Agriculture & Forestry, ICS 200
  • 2016: International Sports Science Association, Personal Trainer Certification
  • 2016: CIFFC (Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre), Understanding the Fire Weather Index (FWI) System
  • 2016: CIFFC, Principles of Fire Behavior
  • 2016: CIFFC, Wildland Fire: Safety on the Fireline

Timeline

Divisional Director of Emergency Disaster Services (EDS)

The Salvation Army
10.2022 - Current

Safety Coordinator of Emergency Preparedness

Koch Fertilizer Canada, ULC
03.2021 - 10.2022

Wildfire Rappel/ Helitack Crew Member

Alberta Agriculture and Forestry (AAF)
04.2016 - 10.2020

Rescue Technician

Elite Safety Services Inc.
02.2015 - 04.2016

Emergency Medical Responder

Discovery Safety Services Ltd.
08.2014 - 02.2015

Personal Trainer

Self-employed
01.2014 - Current

Certification - Structural Collapse

Manitoba Emergency Services College

Bachelor of Arts - Applied Disaster and Emergency Studies

Brandon University

Diploma - Professional Fire Fighter

Texas A&M Engineering Extension Services

Grade 12 French Immersion Diploma -

Neelin High School
Stephanie Couturier