Are you an adventure enthusiast seeking unique and challenging experiences? Texas, with its distinctive geographical location, frequently faces major storms, giving rise to a novel form of adventure tourism: storm chasing tours. Let’s explore this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and discover how to become part of the emergency response team in Texas.
Discover the Texas Emergency Management Academy (TEMA)
The Texas Emergency Management Academy proudly announces its expansion to Fort Worth! This is an exceptional opportunity to equip yourself with essential skills, from disaster response to crisis management, and become part of a rapid and effective response force.
Comprehensive Training Programs for All Hazards
Diverse Types of Natural Disasters You Might Encounter in Texas
Texas boasts geographical diversity, making it susceptible to various natural disasters. From tropical storms making landfall on the coast and tornadoes sweeping across the plains to crippling ice storms and sudden floods engulfing homes, Texas is constantly prepared for emergency response.
Large storm in Texas
Image of the Texas Emergency Management Academy (TEMA) logo, a leading training institution for disaster and natural disaster response in the state.
TDEM – Leading the Way in Disaster Relief
The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) plays a pivotal role in assisting communities through their most challenging times. TDEM is present not only to protect lives and property during disasters but also to support residents in rebuilding their lives afterward.
TDEM operates as an all-hazard response agency, addressing everything from storms and tornadoes to wildfires, severe winter weather, floods, droughts, and human-caused disasters. TDEM’s mission is to help communities identify potential threats, mitigate disaster impacts, and coordinate emergency response efforts.
TDEM – A Bridge to Help People Rebuild After Disasters
Following an incident, many devastated communities are unsure where to begin rebuilding. TDEM stands alongside residents, helping them overcome hardships and return to normalcy. You can become part of this recovery process by joining the emergency response force.
Comprehensive Training Content at TEMA
The Academy’s training program is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in emergency management, including:
- Nationally Recognized Certifications: Students will complete nationally recognized certifications in Emergency Management, including FEMA Emergency Management Institute Professional Development Series (PDS), Advanced Professional Series (APS), and National Emergency Management Basic Academy (NEMBA) programs.
- In-depth Medical Training: All students will receive medical training to the Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) level and achieve National Registry Certification upon successful course completion.
- Leading Expert Instructors: Many instructors are renowned experts from higher education institutions, including TDEM professionals.
- Practical Learning: Students learn directly from experts and experience real-world scenarios. In one course, students were deployed to the Texas Panhandle to support wildfire response, directly participating in damage assessment, donation management, and incident handling.
Excellent Career Opportunities at TDEM
TDEM not only offers competitive salaries but also a deeply rewarding career helping others. TDEM is part of the Texas A&M University System and enjoys all the benefits of this affiliation, including:
- Teacher Retirement System
- Tax Sheltered Annuity Program
- Health benefits including medical/dental/vision options
- Employee Assistance Program
Apply to TEMA Today
The Academy’s fourth class, in San Antonio, began in August 2025 and is projected to graduate in March 2026. The fifth class, in Fort Worth, is projected to begin in October 2025 and projected to graduate in May 2026.
Detailed information about the Texas Emergency Management Academy (TEMA) training program for local partners, including requirements, schedules, and course content.
Class sizes are limited, so apply now for the fifth class and become part of this vital training opportunity.
How to Apply
Visit the Texas Emergency Management Academy website to learn more about the application process and requirements. Application materials include:
- Online application
- Resume
- Letter of sponsorship from a sponsoring organization (if applicable)
Applicants should submit applications via email to [email protected].
Unique Storm Chasing Experience
Beyond professional training courses, you also have the opportunity to experience real-world storm chasing activities in Texas. This is a chance to apply your learned knowledge in practice and face challenging situations firsthand.
Thorough Preparation
Before embarking on a storm chasing tour, thorough physical and mental preparation is essential. Ensure you are physically fit to handle harsh weather conditions and mentally ready to face potentially dangerous situations.
Adequate Equipment
You need to be equipped with all necessary gear for the trip, including:
- Protective clothing
- Rain boots
- Communication devices
- Navigation equipment
- First aid kit
Adhere to Instructions
Throughout the trip, strictly adhere to the instructions of the guides and experts. Avoid acting independently and always prioritize safety.
Conclusion
Participating in a storm chasing tour in Texas is not only an adventurous travel experience but also an opportunity to learn vital knowledge and skills in disaster response. If you are an adventure seeker eager to contribute to community protection, don’t hesitate to enroll in the Texas Emergency Management Academy’s training program today! Are you ready to be a hero?