Pershing County has appointed Joey Loehner as its new emergency manager, placing him in charge of coordinating the county's planning and response for emergencies ranging from wildfires and floods to hazardous materials incidents and other disasters.
Loehner brings experience in emergency medical services, disaster planning and public safety, having served as a flight paramedic, registered nurse, EMS planning officer, clinical education manager and, most recently, chief executive officer of a helicopter air ambulance organization. He has also completed extensive Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Incident Command System training and has coordinated emergency resources during large-scale events and complex incidents.
As emergency manager, Loehner will oversee the county's all-hazards emergency management program, coordinating emergency planning and preparedness efforts before disasters occur while helping direct response and recovery efforts when they do. He will maintain the county's Emergency Operations Plan, coordinate with local, state and federal agencies, oversee the Emergency Operations Center during major incidents, lead the Local Emergency Planning Committee and administer emergency management grants and training programs.
The position works closely with first responders, county departments, schools, hospitals and community organizations to help ensure agencies are prepared to respond quickly and effectively when emergencies arise.
County officials welcomed Loehner to the team, saying they look forward to the experience and leadership he brings to Pershing County.
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