2026 National CERT Conference

Join us in celebrating the 40th anniversary of CERT at the 2026 National CERT Conference. This year's theme, 'Stronger Communities Start Here' plays homage to CERT's roots and the foundation of resiliency that CERT plays in its communities across the country. The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates individuals about disaster preparedness and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as team organization, disaster medical operations, fire and utility safety, and light search and rescue. CERT volunteers provide critical support to professional first responders, offer immediate assistance to affected individuals, and organize volunteers at disaster sites. The National CERT Association (NCA), in partnership with the City of Irvine and the Orange County Emergency Management Division, hosts this conference to increase communication and resource sharing for CERT programs across the U.S. Attendees can expect three full days of pre-conference training, two and a half days of continued learning and breakout sessions, a Welcome Reception, an Opening Plenary with a Keynote Speaker, and opportunities to engage with exhibitors and sponsors.