UW Emergency Management welcomed new Deputy Director Rob Sabarese this Fall. Rob brings almost two decades of emergency management experience to the University of Washington, most recently working for the Washington State Emergency Management Division.
We asked Rob about his emergency management work and his role at the UW.
Why did you decide to work in emergency management?
There are two primary reasons why I elected to work in the emergency management career field. I think the first, and probably the most important, is serving, contributing and providing a meaningful difference in the communities where I work. The second and yet equally important part of working in the emergency management field is the the cost of recovery efforts following a disaster, emergency, crisis or incident can be more than what an organization, enterprise or community would anticipate. It’s the collaboration, interconnectedness, commitment and discipline of following preparedness activities with our partners that is the difference in minimizing the impacts of post disaster costs and community recovery efforts.
How did you get into emergency management work?
I originally started my U.S. Air Force career as a first responder (Air Force Police). As I advanced in my career with more responsibilities, I had the opportunity following the 9/11 attacks to help foster a program focused on personal preparedness and safety for Air Force personnel in overseas locations. From there my career catapulted into emergency response. I received my bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Counterterrorism, then a master’s degree in Emergency and Disaster Management. I further advanced to working in the McChord Air Force Base Emergency Operations Center and command-level coordination of emergency response activities. I retired in 2012 and was hired on as the MultiCare Health System Emergency Management Practice Leader, Washington State Emergency Management Coordinator for the Legislature, WA Emergency Management Division Assessment and Exercise Programs Supervisor, then Organizational Effectiveness Manager.
Tell us about your role. What are your responsibilities as Deputy Director of Emergency Management?
My role as the Deputy Director has many different facets. My responsibilities include operational and administrative management of the emergency management program elements, including preparedness planning, assessments, evaluations, coordination of strategic planning, etc.
Other factors include working to synchronize efforts across the UW Seattle campus departments, UW Tacoma, UW Bothell and UW Medicine, while ensuring their own respective emergency operational activities and preparedness remain intact, so that it works for them. Tertiary to internal UWEM relationship management is to work externally with our city, county, state and federal partners to ensure the UW enterprise is best outfitted and supported before, during and after an emergency or disaster.
Why did you decide to work at the University of Washington?
The history, pride and prestigious culture of the University of Washington was a definite decision factor, but also, after learning about the Deputy Director role it was a prime opportunity and a win-win for UW and me. I can share, educate and help foster a culture of preparedness through the experience I’ve gained, but also for me to learn more about emergency preparedness in higher education.
What’s an item you added to your emergency kit for fun or for comfort?
Dog treats and toys for my dog, Cassy. Oh, and I can’t forget her tennis balls. I have about 30 tennis balls in a bag for her.
What are you happiest doing when you’re not working?
Running. It’s my favorite pastime. It’s not only therapeutic and healthy, but there’s a way to connect with so many people.
