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 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