Mission Support Portfolio

Overview

Provides essential support for the Nevada Emergency Operations Center (NVEOC) and the state’s overall emergency management efforts. Led by the Mission Support Portfolio Manager, this portfolio encompasses key programs such as communications and IT systems administration, statewide interoperability coordination, 911 coordination, the 24/7 Duty Officer Program, and GIS services for the Division and its local, state, and federal partners. Additionally, it oversees critical functions, including Emergency Operations Center management, Incident Management Assistance Teams, credentialing and certification through the National Qualification System, the Interstate Mutual Aid System, and the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. Together, these efforts ensure seamless coordination, operational readiness, and mission-critical support for Nevada’s emergency management framework.

Communications/IT Systems Program:

This program ensures the reliability and functionality of communications and IT systems critical to the Nevada Emergency Operations Center (NVEOC) and emergency response efforts statewide. It supports system administration, troubleshooting, and technology upgrades to maintain seamless communication during emergencies. Additionally, it facilitates coordination between the Division and cooperating agencies, managing radio communications through the Nevada Shared Radio System (NSRS), Very High Frequency (VHF), Ultra High Frequency (UHF), and federal shared frequencies. The program also oversees volunteer radio operators within the NVEOC, ensuring robust and effective communication capabilities.

Duty Officer Program:

This program operates around the clock, 24/7/365, to provide critical support to local jurisdictions and tribal nations during emergencies and incidents. Staffed by a team of seven dedicated NDEM members under the leadership of the watch officer. Duty Officers manage their program responsibilities alongside their regular roles, exemplifying their commitment to public safety and emergency response.

Reserve Program:

NDEM’s primary trained volunteer program grew from ten members in 2023 to twenty-one members in 2024. Members have supported real-world disasters, including Hurricane Hilary in 2023 and the Davis Fire in 2024. Trained reservists can be assigned to the Nevada Emergency Operations Center (NVEOC), field operations, Auxiliary Communications (Auxcomm) as amateur radio operators, or as deployed liaison officers to local jurisdictions during and after major incidents or events. Cross-training across different skills and positions is strongly encouraged. Between incidents 27 and events, Reserve personnel participate in training classes and exercises to enhance their emergency management knowledge and skills.

911 Coordination Program:

This program oversees the integration and alignment of emergency communication systems across Nevada, enhancing statewide 911 capabilities. By collaborating with local and state agencies, it ensures consistent access to emergency services and supports efforts to modernize 911 infrastructure.

Geographic Information System (GIS) Program:

This program is responsible for the development, maintenance, and direct support of the State Situational Awareness and Preliminary Damage Assessment Hub website, as well as all GIS tools for Response and Recovery efforts. This includes key applications such as the Incident Status Dashboard, FEMA Lifeline Conditions Dashboard, Emergency Information Manager Editing Application, PDA Surveys and Dashboards, and the Public Information Application.

  • During State emergency activations, this role oversees the deployment of all Response and Recovery tools and applications, the creation of new tools and dashboards as requested by the EOC manager, staff, and ESFs, and the provision of surge licenses for local emergency management jurisdictions. 
  • Continuously improves and upgrades Emergency Management products to ensure efficient delivery of resources to state emergency management staff, stakeholders, ESFs, policy groups, local jurisdictions, and the public. This includes developing Python scripts, geoprocessing tools, new surveys, and a public-facing evacuation and shelter application. Additional responsibilities include the creation and maintenance of informational dashboards, such as the County Profile Dashboard highlighting impoverished communities, the Flooding Dashboard, and the Nevada All Hazard Dashboard.

Statewide Interoperability Coordination (SWIC) Program:

This program promotes communication interoperability among emergency response agencies across Nevada. It develops and implements strategies to align communication systems, ensuring first responders can share critical information effectively during incidents.

Nevada Emergency Operations Center (NVEOC) Operations Program:

This program manages the day-to-day readiness and activation of the NVEOC. It ensures operational preparedness, coordinates response activities, and provides a central hub for managing emergencies and disasters across the state.