Emergency Management Association of Tennessee (EMAT) was founded in 1985 and is open to all people who contribute to emergency management profession and the preparedness of Tennessee. Vision: To be the premier professional association for interdisciplinary training, collaboration, coordination, and advocacy of statewide emergency management efforts and for facilitation of preparedness efforts and promoting alignment between all levels of government and private sector organizations and individuals involved in planning for mitigation of, response to, and recovery from natural and man-made disasters in the state of Tennessee. Mission: To promote training and the dissemination of information in order to achieve the best practices, identify advocacy issues, improve education, and facilitate programs that enhance the performance, effectiveness, and expertise of a diverse membership of engaged professionals contributing to the preparedness and safety of Tennesseans and protecting property.