We Are FEMA: Lindsey Parker

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. Sheퟀ�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.â€

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.