The core values that guide our agency can be found in our capstone doctrine, “We Are FEMA.” Every day, across the nation, FEMA employees are inspired by that mission and are working tirelessly to make a difference.
We encourage you to learn more about the staff and their mission-driven work and the who, what and why behind our mission.
Video Spotlight
Watch more stories in our We Are FEMA playlist on YouTube.
#IAMFEMA Stories
The men and women of FEMA are our most valuable assets. This diverse team represents every U.S. state, local, tribal and territorial area and our effectiveness is enhanced because we understand the communities we serve. We strive to ensure that our values of compassion, fairness, integrity and respect are reflected through our actions in every step in the process.
Explore these stories to get to know the people of FEMA and the many ways they are helping to create a more prepared and resilient nation. To join our team, go to USAjobs.gov to see the latest job openings.
“FEMA allows me the opportunity to continue working to help others in need."
– Arlena, Region 2
"My FEMA training and my ability to remain calm in uncertain situations undoubtedly played a significant role in me saving an elderly woman's life."
– Tom, Region 9
“As I support the Deaf employee, I
get to see the amazing work that unfolds, the collaboration that
happens and the survivors who are able to benefit. Our Deaf
employees are dedicated to providing assistance to these
survivors, and I am so fortunate to be part of it,”
– Yasmine, Reservists
Norma Su’a Owens remembers constantly preparing for hurricanes as a child. After Hurricane Iwa in 1982, resources were especially limited.
Leviticus “L.A.” Lewis is a self-professed space geek. Growing up, L.A.
In 2013, Colorado was facing the largest floods it had seen in over 30 years. That year, FEMA hired Mark Petitt to support the disaster declaration.
A Louisiana homeowner hugged Paul Huang, assistant administrator for FEMA’s Federal Insurance, after his team adjusted her flood insurance claim, helped muck out her house and provided her with a $
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.
As a kid, Kristin Duquette dreamed of being an Olympic swimmer. “There’s nothing like representing your country on an international stage,” Kristin says.