A Chilton County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) volunteer recently completed advanced level certification.

David Hicks Jr. received a plaque from the Alabama Association of Emergency Managers stating that he has completed the rigorous educational and training requirements to become an advanced level emergency manager.

Certification at the advanced level entails the completion of 700 hours of core curriculum coursework and 300 hours of optional professional development training.

Stephanie Gibson, field coordinator for Region 3 of the association, said this is an effort by the association to help emergency managers at the local level be more professional in their duties.

Hicks, who is a police officer for the Clanton Police Department, dedicated his vacation and personal time to complete the training. Currently, only 94 people have received the designation of advanced level emergency manager.

“By doing this, Mr. Hicks has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to emergency management profession by willingly undertaking and successfully completing an exceptionally demanding academic endeavor,” said Eddie Hicks, chairman of certification committee.

Chilton County EMA director Bill Collum said he is proud of David Hicks for his hard work and dedication.

“To get this certification, it takes a lot of work and a lot of time in the classroom,” Collum said. “We appreciate his effort, and that training will benefit the people of Chilton County.”

David Hicks said he wants to continue to help the Chilton County EMA.