Texas Emergency Management Academy Graduates Fourth Cadet Class

The Texas Division of Emergency Management celebrates the completion of the rigorous emergency management training program.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:25pm

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A high-contrast, brightly colored silkscreen print depicting an iconic emergency response object such as a fire truck or ambulance, repeated in a grid pattern to create a vibrant, abstract pop art composition.The graduation of the Texas Emergency Management Academy's fourth cadet class celebrates the state's commitment to building a skilled emergency response workforce.Austin Today

The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) held a graduation ceremony in Austin to celebrate the completion of the fourth cadet class of the Texas Emergency Management Academy. The 25 graduates received comprehensive training in all aspects of emergency management, including preparedness, response, recovery, and hazard mitigation, and earned multiple nationally recognized certifications.

Why it matters

The Texas Emergency Management Academy is a first-of-its-kind program in the nation that aims to strengthen emergency management capabilities across the state by training the next generation of professionals. As Texans increasingly face natural disasters and other crises, having a skilled and dedicated emergency management workforce is crucial for protecting lives and property.

The details

During the ceremony, TDEM Chief Nim Kidd delivered the keynote address and congratulated the cadets on their accomplishments. The eight-month academy program provided in-depth, hands-on training from nearly 100 subject matter experts in areas such as emergency management planning, disaster finance, logistics, wildland firefighting, and hazard mitigation. Graduates earned certifications including FEMA's Professional Development Series, the Level I Professional Continuity Practitioner program, and the National Emergency Management Basic Academy. They also completed training as basic emergency medical technicians and achieved National Registry certification.

  • The graduation ceremony took place on April 10, 2026 in Austin, Texas.

The players

Nim Kidd

The Texas Emergency Management Chief who delivered the keynote address at the graduation ceremony.

Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM)

The state agency that operates the Texas Emergency Management Academy, a first-of-its-kind program in the nation that comprehensively trains the next generation of emergency management professionals.

Texas A&M University San Antonio

The university where the fourth cadet class of the Texas Emergency Management Academy was based, leveraging the capabilities of the Texas A&M University System.

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What they’re saying

“Texans rely on strong leadership and coordination during times of crisis. I am proud of these individuals for their commitment to completing this rigorous program and their readiness to serve communities across our state.”

— Nim Kidd, Texas Emergency Management Chief

“These cadets are embarking on an endeavor that holds a critical role in protecting lives and property. Their training and dedication will strengthen emergency management capabilities across Texas.”

— Nim Kidd, Texas Emergency Management Chief

What’s next

The Texas Division of Emergency Management will continue to operate the Texas Emergency Management Academy, training future generations of emergency management professionals to serve communities across the state.

The takeaway

The graduation of the fourth cadet class from the Texas Emergency Management Academy demonstrates the state's commitment to building a skilled and dedicated emergency management workforce. By providing comprehensive training in all aspects of emergency management, the academy is equipping the next generation of leaders to protect Texans in times of crisis.