ASCE partners to advance disaster management efforts

RESTON, Va.—In an effort to address the need for an increased emphasis on coordination of all aspects of emergency management worldwide, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) recently signed a memorandum of cooperation. The new agreement establishes a relationship designed to promote awareness of the state of our nation’s critical infrastructure, and to encourage the involvement of the engineering community in supporting emergency managers.

"Because both organizations recognize the importance of improving the integrity of our nation’s aging and overburdened infrastructure as a part of protecting public safety, ASCE is looking forward to working with IAEM on this important issue," said ASCE President David G. Mongan, P.E., F.ASCE. "It is imperative to design, develop, and construct critical infrastructure that is resilient from all hazards, and achieving that goal will be an integral part of this partnership."

While IAEM activities are dedicated to promoting the goal of saving lives and protecting property during emergencies and disasters, both organizations acknowledge the need for the engineering community to support the preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation phases of emergency management. In cooperation with IAEM, ASCE aims to enhance disaster management efforts at the local, state, federal, and international levels, as well as to ensure the continued participation of all agencies and departments involved in emergency management. In addition, both organizations recognize the need for additional funding and increased emphasis on coordination of all aspects of emergency management worldwide.