A 30-day detail to the Dallas office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has given FEMA Region VI employee Patricia McArthur new insight to the importance of federal agency partnerships.

McArthur is participating in the Future FEMA Leader program, and was assigned to the Corps’ Southwestern Readiness and Operations Division from June 18 to July 20.

During her assignment, McArthur provided technical assistance on the Division’s Emergency Operations Plan and the Continuity of Operations Plan, exchanged ideas on Family Readiness Support Projects with staff, and explained the FEMA structure, roles and responsibilities to her the Corps counterparts.

“This has been a true learning experience,” McArthur said.  “Together we can combine efforts to provide maximum support in preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation to communities in our region.”   

“I totally support this partnership and hope it will continue in the future,” Paul Krebs, Readiness and Operations Division chief, said. “Participants in this program have a greater understanding of what capabilities and mission sets each agency brings to the fight.  It enhances an already great relationship and should be of benefit to both agencies.”

In addition to providing an opportunity for personal and career growth for participants in a cross-training culture, the partnership between the Corps and FEMA also supports the whole community initiative.

Patricia McArthur, FEMA R6 Disaster Operations Specialist, Mitigation Division and FEMA Future Leader (FFL) Program Participant, and US Army Corps of Engineers, Southwestern Division Staff after presenting McArthur with a USACE Coin for Excellence in appreciation for her work during her tour as a member of the FFL Program.