NYSFSMA is pleased to announce the launch of the NYSFSMA Young Emerging Professionals (YEP) organization. The inaugural meeting was held on June 3 with nearly a dozen attendees. A YEP is defined as anyone between the ages of 18-40 who works in floodplain and/or stormwater management or a related field. Additionally, a YEP can be anyone outside of that age bracket who is an industry or career changer who has been in the floodplain and stormwater management field for less than 5 years. The organization, its structure, and leadership are still being determine but YEPs are planning to meet on a regular basis (monthly or bimonthly) with the goal of helping NYSFSMA achieve its mission and gain valuable experience and networking opportunities.

YEPs are planning to assist NYSFSMA with numerous projects and activities including conference planning and support, newsletter articles, committee assignments from the NYSFSMA board and other small projects. In exchange, NYSFSMA hopes to provide YEPs CFM training and support, knowledge-sharing, networking/career connection opportunities, mentorship, and social engagement. Additionally, YEPs are hoping to expand outreach to college students or new graduates with assistance in joining the profession.

While the NYSFSMA YEP organization is still in its infancy, the energy and enthusiasm by its initial leadership is quite exceptional! Expect to see regular updates about the YEP organization in this newsletter and in other NYSFSMA outreach materials. The next meeting of YEPs will be on July 8. If you are a YEP who is interested in helping to launch this organization, please reach out to vicechair@nyfloods.org.