IAEM Associate Emergency Manager (AEM®) and Certified Emergency Manager (CEM®) Designations
WSEMA Member Kevin Wickersham CEM, serves as the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Region 10 President (2024-26 term) and previously served as Region 10 Vice President (2022-24 term). On this page, Kevin discusses the value of IAEM and Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) and Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) designations and how to get started on the road to certification.
In today’s evolving emergency management landscape, professional certification is more than a credential—it’s a commitment to excellence. The Associate Emergency Manager (AEM®) and Certified Emergency Manager (CEM®) designations, offered by the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), are the industry’s premier certifications, recognized globally as the gold standard for emergency management professionals.
Whether you are an emerging professional looking to build your foundation through the AEM® designation or a seasoned emergency manager seeking to validate your experience with the CEM® credential, these certifications set you apart as a leader in the field.
Why Pursue AEM® or CEM® Certification?
Earning an IAEM certification is a powerful way to demonstrate your expertise, leadership, and commitment to the profession. Employers increasingly seek AEM®- and CEM®-certified professionals to lead emergency management programs and coordinate disaster response efforts. These certifications provide:
- Professional Recognition – A globally respected certification that distinguishes you as a leader in emergency management.
- Career Advancement – Increasingly required or preferred for leadership positions in emergency management, public safety, and business continuity.
- Demonstrated Competency – A rigorous certification process that validates your education, training, and experience.
- Commitment to Excellence – A formal acknowledgment of your dedication to continuous learning and professional development.
For those newer to the field, the AEM® designation is a valuable first step toward achieving full CEM® certification as you gain experience.
AEM® Eligibility & Requirements
For professionals new to emergency management, the Associate Emergency Manager (AEM®) designation provides a strong foundation for career growth. Unlike the CEM®, the AEM® does not require work experience, making it an excellent choice for early-career professionals seeking to demonstrate their knowledge and commitment to the field.
To earn the AEM® credential, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Training & Professional Development – Completion of at least 100 contact hours of emergency management training and 100 hours of general management training within the last 10 years. No more than 25 hours may be on a single topic.
- References –One letter of reference, signed and on letterhead from current supervisor is required in addition to contact information for a total of three references
- Comprehensive Exam – Candidates must pass a 120-question multiple-choice exam covering emergency management principles and best practices
The AEM® designation is an excellent way to build credibility in the profession and work toward full CEM® certification as you gain additional experience. Once you gain the necessary experience, it is a simple process to upgrade from AEM to CEM, and there is no fee to upgrade.
CEM® Eligibility & Requirements
The Certified Emergency Manager (CEM®) designation is the highest professional certification in the field and is globally recognized as the standard for experienced emergency management professionals. Achieving the CEM® credential demonstrates your ability to lead, coordinate, and effectively manage emergency response, recovery, mitigation, and preparedness programs at the highest level.
To earn the CEM® credential, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Emergency Management Work Experience – At least three years of full-time equivalent comprehensive emergency management experience
- Degree – A bachelor’s degree or higher (or an equivalent combination of education and emergency management experience).
- Training & Professional Development – Completion of at least 100 contact hours of emergency management training and 100 hours of general management training within the last 10 years. No more than 25 hours may be on a single topic.
- Professional Contributions – At least six demonstrated contributions to the emergency management profession through activities such as teaching, publishing, leadership roles, or service in professional associations. Contributions must be outside of and in addition to your job responsibilities.
- Comprehensive Exam – Candidates must pass a 120-question multiple-choice exam covering emergency management principles and best practices.
The CEM® certification is valid for five years, with a straightforward recertification process to ensure credentialed professionals stay current in the evolving field of emergency management.
How to Apply for AEM® or CEM® Certification
The application process for both the AEM® and CEM® certifications is detailed but achievable with preparation and planning. IAEM provides a step-by-step guide to help candidates successfully complete their applications. Here’s what to expect:
- Create an IAEM Certification Profile – Register in the IAEM Certification Portal.
- Document Your Experience & Training – Collect evidence of your work history, education, and professional development.
- Submit Professional Contributions (for CEM® applicants only) – Provide documentation of profession contributions to the field.
- Take the Certification Exam – Once approved, schedule and pass the exam.
- Earn Your Credential – After successfully meeting all requirements, receive your AEM® or CEM® designation and join a global network of certified professionals.
Get Started Today
The AEM® and CEM® designations set you apart as a highly skilled, knowledgeable, and committed emergency management professional. Whether you work in government, healthcare, private sector, or academia, achieving your IAEM certification can open doors to new opportunities, leadership roles, and increased professional recognition.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, visit the IAEM Certification Page to review requirements, download the application guide, and begin your journey toward becoming a Certified or Associate Emergency Manager.
Quick tip: if you think you might be interested in pursuing certification in the future but aren’t ready yet, consider reviewing the requirements for training and professional contributions soon and begin gathering certificates and other required substantiating documentation as you go about your work. Difficulty gathering old documents to substantiate training and professional contributions is a common challenge for applicants.
For questions, mentorship, or insights on the certification process, connect with IAEM Region 10 leadership. We are here to support you as you take this important step toward professional growth and excellence.
About IAEM & IAEM Region 10
The International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) is the leading global professional association for emergency management practitioners, dedicated to advocating for the emergency management profession and promoting professionalism, standards, and leadership in the field. IAEM Region 10 represents Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, supporting emergency management professionals across the Pacific Northwest.
Interested in joining IAEM? Visit the IAEM website to learn more about member benefits and how to join.
If you have questions about IAEM-USA, IAEM Region 10, or the AEM/CEM designation process, please reach out to USARegion10President@iaem.com
Kevin P. Wickersham, Regional President, IAEM Region 10
