I have for many years worked as a Paramedic all across the country, in several capacities, which has led me towards research and work in emergency management, disaster preparedness and mitigation, and an eye towards expanding and overlapping these areas. I have seen how often communities, individuals, and organizations learn the hard way, or more often than not don't learn but repeat the mistakes of others. The lessons are not complex, but they are fundamental and I truly wish to become involved in processes which improve social resilience in the face of change. Now if only I could find a way of paying the bills at the same time...