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Let’s build a plan your team can rely on

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to strengthen an existing plan, Next Wave is here to help.
Reach out to start a conversation about your organization, your concerns, and how we can support your preparedness, response, and resilience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Who do you typically work with?

We primarily work with local and county governments, public sector agencies, and mission-driven organizations that need practical, actionable emergency preparedness support. Many clients are small to mid-sized teams who don’t have dedicated emergency managers or want a trusted advisor to strengthen what they already have.
Throughout my career, I’ve supported clients and partners spanning government, higher education, K-12 education, private sector organizations, faith-based groups, healthcare systems, airports, and more. That experience allows me to quickly understand different operating environments and tailor solutions that fit.

If your plan hasn’t been updated in the last one to two years, lives in a binder on the shelf, or hasn’t been tested with your team, there is likely a gap.

Other signs include organizational changes, new facilities or capabilities, evolving threats, shifts in how your organization would respond to disasters, or updates to regulatory requirements or response doctrine. If roles are unclear during an incident or coordination feels uncertain, it is a good time to take a closer look.

That is often the best starting point. I do not just create plans. I make them usable. This includes modernizing existing plans, aligning them with how your organization actually operates, and ensuring your team knows how to execute them under pressure.

Services and Approach

What does the process look like to get started?

It starts with a conversation to understand your goals, challenges, and current state. From there, I will prepare a proposal of services that are appropriate for your needs.Once we begin, I typically assess your current approach, identify gaps and priorities, develop or refine plans and tools, and facilitate stakeholder input. The process is collaborative and tailored to your organization.

Every plan is customized. I use proven frameworks and best practices as a foundation, but the final product reflects your organization’s structure, risks, and operations. 

I take an all-hazards approach. This includes natural disasters such as storms and flooding, public health incidents, infrastructure disruptions, and more. The goal is to build adaptable capabilities so your team can respond to any scenario.

Yes. Training is a core part of my services. I design and deliver engaging, practical sessions so your team can build confidence and practice decision-making in realistic scenarios.

All of the above. Training and exercises can be delivered in person, virtually, or through video-based formats depending on your needs, schedule, and team structure.

Yes. I help bring the right voices to the table, whether that includes internal departments, external partners, or the public. This ensures plans are informed, inclusive, and actionable.

Outcomes and Value

What does a successful emergency plan look like?

A strong plan is clear, accessible, and actionable. Your team knows their roles, can quickly find what they need, and has confidence in how to respond. It becomes a tool your organization can rely on during high-pressure situations.

 You will reduce confusion, speed up decision-making, and improve coordination. Teams that plan and train effectively are able to act faster, communicate more clearly, and adapt when conditions change.ations. 

 Yes. I can align your plans with applicable state, federal, or industry requirements while keeping the focus on usability, not just checking a box.

Investing in emergency preparedness reduces risk, minimizes disruption, and protects your people, operations, and reputation. It also saves time during an incident, when every minute matters.

Logistics

How long does it take to develop or update an emergency plan?

Timelines vary based on scope and ongoing engagements supporting current clients, but most projects range from a few weeks to a few months. I work efficiently and structure engagements to avoid unnecessary delays.

 Both options are available. Some clients engage for a specific project, while others may need ongoing support for updates, training, and advisory services.

 Yes. Engagements can be structured as fixed-price projects, hourly or on-demand support, or retainers depending on what works best for your organization.

Additional Questions

How is Next Wave Preparedness different from other emergency management consulting firms?

Next Wave Preparedness is built on being practical, agile, and relationship-driven. We do not deliver generic services. We work alongside you as a trusted advisor, bringing real-world experience and a focus on solutions that actually work.

 Email us at emily.kaster@nextwavepreparedness.com to request a free consultation conversation. We will talk through your needs, priorities, and potential next steps, and determine how Next Wave Preparedness can best assist.