10 Qs with
Dilia Camacho
AshBritt's Business & Client Relations Manager
4. SHARE A HOT TOPIC OR TREND IN YOUR FIELD!
1. HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY?
One of the hot topics currently trending in the field is the 2022 Storm Season. As we anxiously await the 2022 Storm Season forecast, early preparation is key to successful recovery missions.
My best advice is to speak to someone that has been in the industry for a while and can give you insight into the different career paths of Emergency Management. Obtaining guidance from those in the industry may help you identify the best organizations to research and the types of careers that may interest you. A good starting point may be in the public sector, internship, or volunteer program.
6. HAVE YOU READ A RECENT ARTICLE OR BOOK THAT INSPIRED YOU?
I have recently read a good feel article published by the National Emergency Management Association, showcasing Oregon’s IDEA Program's focus on transforming the emergency management profession through Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility. Through strategic partnerships, Oregon’s Office of Emergency Management is working toward building equity in emergency management.
Ready Nation: Prepared - Remembering Accessibility While Working Toward DEI (campaign-view.com)
7. HOW DO YOU STAY ENGAGED WITH YOUR COMMUNITY?
As a front-line disaster responder, I stay engaged with our communities before, during, and after a disaster event. My community involvement focuses on programs that provide value to communities through events participation and volunteering. Having developed and organized numerous environmental clean-up events for Earth Day and America Recycles Day, I am a big supporter of “Keep America Beautiful” through local affiliations.
I love to paint and sketch! Painting is my form of expression and relaxation. I enjoy mixing mediums and creating textured looks. My painting consists of abstract, still life, portraits, and landscaping. I am inspired by vibrant color, beauty in nature, and eye-catching objects or phrases that spark my creative muse. It’s exciting to see an idea come to life and thought-provoking when your creation sparks different interpretations that create conversations. I have displayed a couple of my paintings in local art shows and exhibitions and have been commissioned twice for a painting.
Thinking back on my career, I have numerous projects that I am most proud of. As an environmental steward, one of my proudest projects was developing recycling programs and educational outreach campaigns that supported the State of Florida’s 75% recycling goal. Using traditional recycling methods, the programs were designed to increase the county’s diversion and recycling rate annually by 7%. These projects were important because they supported environmental initiatives that preserved natural resources and the ecological balance of communities. In total, the county’s recycling rate increased 42% during my tenure.
The second project that I am proud of and honored to have been a part of in my current role with AshBrittis the Texas COVID-19 Alternate Care Sites and Infusion Centers project. I formed part of the national response initiative that supported pandemic relief and services that saved lives. A demanding and overwhelming experience that delivered the utmost reward and personal fulfillment.
9. ANY TIPS FOR WORK/LIFE BALANCE?
My only advice is to enjoy your time, when you have it, to the fullest. Set a time daily to relax, exercise, and stay active.
10. SHARE YOUR BEST CAREER ADVICE.
1. Follow your heart and passion. The heart is the GPS that guides you in the direction that fuels your passion, successfully motivating you to, “do what you love and love what you do”.
2. I always try to think outside of the box to maximize my career and experience. One of the best pieces of advice (I’ve had to do this a couple of times) ….. Don’t be scared to take a step back to launch farther in your career. It’s ok to pause, reset, and explore! Embrace change and the wonderful opportunities it may bring.
3. WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE A ROADBLOCK FOR WOMEN IN THE INDUSTRY?
I believe various roadblocks exist for women in the industry. The first is limited exposure, and popularity in the field of emergency management to pique the interest of women. Although recent events have placed emergency management in the spotlight, increasing some popularity and interest, additional focus is required to provide women in the industry a guided path to the various career outlets. Emergency Management is a demanding field and establishing a life-work balance is especially important, the key is finding the right balance that allows you to manage both in a work neutral environment.