One of the overall lessons learned from the Hurricane Katrina disaster is that first responder volunteers do not always have knowledge or capabilities needed. This applies to all responding disciplines, not just telecommunicators. In response, FEMA identified the need for a responder credentialing process. Furthermore, it was determined that credentialing would be done through the National Incident Management System (NIMS) Integration Center.

Through the awareness efforts of NENA, telecommunicators have been identified as a discipline that needs a credentialing program. After initial discussions between NENA and FEMA, APCO was engaged, and national TERT standards now are being developed by the two organizations under the National Joint TERT Initiative (NJTI). The NJTI is being co-chaired by Brent Lee representing APCO and Doug Edmonds representing NENA. The NJTI will be working with existing/developing TERT programs around the country, including Wisconsin, to gain input as they move forward with their mission.

View Map of States Participating in TERT Development