The Institute for Homeland Security and Emergency Management (IHSEM) has partnered with the Rural Domestic Preparedness Consortium (RDPC) since 2007, when North Carolina Central University was selected as one of six academic partners to prepare rural emergency responders nationwide for all-hazards incidents. Congress and the Department of Homeland Security established the RDPC to develop and deliver all-hazards training in support of rural homeland security requirements. Led by the Center for Rural Development (CRD), the consortium is comprised of academic partners that possess extensive experience and unique capabilities in serving the rural emergency community.
IHSEM offers specialized emergency management training in planning and intervention for security threat groups, hate groups, and terrorist organizations within rural jails and prisons. In addition, the program provides courses on community threat group identification, assessment, and information reporting tailored to the needs of rural law enforcement and correctional officers. These courses have equipped emergency responders with substantial knowledge and practical skills to recognize emerging threats, respond effectively to high-risk situations, and share critical intelligence across agencies. By focusing on the unique challenges faced in rural communities, IHSEM ensures that frontline responders are prepared to address complex security risks while enhancing overall public safety and resilience.
The IHSEM program has delivered more than 241 emergency management training courses, equipping over 5,496 students from 215 cities, counties, and local jurisdictions with the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. These trainings have strengthened the capabilities of first responders, public officials, and community leaders, fostering greater collaboration and resilience across the United States.
The scope and impact of these efforts have been substantial. IHSEM has not only enhanced the operational readiness of local jurisdictions but also advanced best practices in the field through the integration of subject-matter expertise, applied research, and innovative approaches to disaster planning. By addressing both traditional hazards and emerging threats, IHSEM has positioned itself as a national leader in emergency management training and research, recognized for its ability to bridge theory with real-world applications.
Through these initiatives, IHSEM continues to shape a more prepared and resilient emergency management workforce, ensuring that communities are better protected against the complex challenges of the future.
