​FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute I Virtual Tabletop Exercise Program

The Emergency Management Institute (EMI) is offering a series of monthly Virtual Tabletop Exercises (VTTX). The VTTX program is an initiative intended to leverage technology and reach a large training audience.

VTTX programs use a video teleconference platform (ZOOM) to reach community based training audiences around the country and provide a virtual forum for disaster training. The VTTX process involves key personnel from the emergency management community of practice reviewing a pre-packaged set of exercise materials then convening for a four hour table top exercise discussing a simulated disaster scenario. The event allows the connected sites to assess current plans, policies and procedures while learning from the other connected sites as they provide their perspective and practices facing a similar situation.

This VTTX is designed to engage the participants in a no-fault, hazard-specific exercise discussion. Facilitation will occur online from the EMI and will need to be complemented by a dedicated local agency facilitator at each participating site. The participating location must provide a person capable of facilitating the onsite portion of this discussion-based exercise. The VTTX will be supported by an Exercise and Coordination Facilitation Guide, which will include all required logistical information (room layout, connection instructions, etc.), as well as facilitation instructions.

Course dates and scenario topics are included below.

How to Apply: Locations interested in participating in the VTTX series should submit an email request to the program coordinator or call (301) 447-1381. Be sure to mention your preferred topic or course date when making your request. When applying, please provide a central point of contact from your organization to work all VTTX issues. Upon receipt, the central POC will be contacted with the approved participation date.