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We Are FEMA: Lindsey Parker

Lindsey Parker
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In 2019, Lindsey Parker had not yet completed her first internship at FEMA when she decided she would try to return as an intern the following year.

“The best thing about working at FEMA both this summer and last has been the people,” Lindsey said.

During her first internship, Lindsey helped to convey the mission of FEMA’s Office of Response and Recovery programs across the agency. Her research and analysis skills helped her make valued contributions. She said the Office of Response and Recovery also helped her grow and develop her professional skills. “I feel very lucky to have gotten the opportunity to work with such incredibly dedicated and supportive people throughout my time here,” she said.

This year, Lindsey shadowed National Response Coordination Center Resource Support Section Chief Brian Applebee during COVID-19 response efforts. Continuing her support of the Office of Response and Recovery, Lindsey reported to headquarters in Washington, DC at least twice a week to help receive and sort incoming mail while many employees worked virtually. Her commitment to correspondence from the public, even amidst COVID-19, embodies the mission of FEMA.

Lindsey says that her advice when applying for a position at FEMA is to keep an open mind. “FEMA is full of people who have different areas of expertise and fields of study,” she said. “So no matter what you may have studied or what your experience is, you can find a place here; you just have to be willing to look for the right fit.”

Lindsey hopes to work for FEMA after she graduates next spring. Internships at FEMA can lead to careers through the FEMA Pathways Program. FEMA offers employment opportunities that include: Student & Recent Grad Programs , Presidential Management Fellows and Internships. Student & Recent Grad Programs offer invaluable, career-defining and preparation experiences, and range from paid summer internships to career development programs that may lead to a permanent job. Additionally, the FEMA Career Pathway Tool is a way for current and prospective FEMA employees to explore the many different careers that are available at FEMA.

These opportunities provide a variety of work experiences, training, networking and developmental opportunities that are designed to build technical and professional skills while developing a broad knowledge of the agency and its core functions.

The We Are FEMA campaign highlights the people who make up FEMA, like Lindsey, who are committed to serving our country before, during and after disasters. It takes a deeper look at the employees who work to make our nation safer, stronger and more prepared. The campaign allows others to learn more about the mission-driven work and the who, what and why behind the FEMA mission. The faces of FEMA are diverse, but they share the same goal: to help people before, during and after disaster.

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