Versatile Ecologist Takes on Multiple Roles to Ensure Smooth Operations at Unified Command Center

USACE-Baltimore
Published Aug. 14, 2024
Updated: April 21, 2024
The Key Bridge Response 2024 Unified Command priorities are to ensure the safety of the public and first responders, account for missing persons, safely restore transportation infrastructure and commerce, protect the environment, and support the investigation of the incident. Pictured from left to right are Biologist Ariel Poirier, Emergency Planner Rebecca Fosnight, and COL Estee S. Pinchasin, Commander and District Engineer for Baltimore District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. They are reviewing successes of the previous week and future operation plans.

The Key Bridge Response 2024 Unified Command priorities are to ensure the safety of the public and first responders, account for missing persons, safely restore transportation infrastructure and commerce, protect the environment, and support the investigation of the incident. Pictured from left to right are Biologist Ariel Poirier, Emergency Planner Rebecca Fosnight, and COL Estee S. Pinchasin, Commander and District Engineer for Baltimore District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. They are reviewing successes of the previous week and future operation plans.

US Army Corps of Engineers ecologist Amani Khalil participates in operations at the Unified Command Center in Baltimore, Maryland. Khalil is backfilling various roles of USACE employees for the Key Bridge Response.

US Army Corps of Engineers ecologist Amani Khalil participates in operations at the Unified Command Center in Baltimore, Maryland. Khalil is backfilling various roles of USACE employees for the Key Bridge Response.

In the heart of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), where efficiency was paramount and every role is critical, Amani Khalil stood out as a beacon of adaptability and expertise. While her day-to-day job revolved around environmental ecology, within the confines of the Incident Command Post (ICP), Khalil assumed many responsibilities.

As an environmental ecologist by profession, Khalil's expertise was assessing environmental impact analyses, a role crucial in disaster response operations. However, within the EOC, she wore multiple hats, taking on titles such as emergency operations coordinator, logistics specialist, and personnel resource officer.

"I'm happy to help where I am needed," Khalil expressed. "I have learned so much about each of our roles, and I have a better appreciation of each person I work with."

In the fast-paced environment of the EOC, Khalil's versatility proved invaluable. She navigated between roles with ease, ensuring the machinery of the center operated smoothly. Her ability to step in and fill any void demonstrated not only her dedication but also her understanding of the interconnectedness of the team's efforts.

One of the hallmarks of Khalil's approach was her accessibility. Clad in a red shirt, she welcomed inquiries from anyone in need. If she didn't have the answer, she was quick to direct them to who did. The level of cross-training exhibited by Khalil was a powerful example of knowledge management within the EOC. Her willingness to learn and adapt not only enhanced her own skill set but also fostered a culture of collaboration and mutual respect among her colleagues.

One of the hallmarks of Khalil's approach was her accessibility. Clad in a red shirt, she welcomed inquiries from anyone in need. If she didn't have the answer, she was quick to direct them to who did. The level of cross-training exhibited by Khalil was a powerful example of knowledge management within the EOC. Her willingness to learn and adapt not only enhanced her own skill set but also fostered a culture of collaboration and mutual respect among her colleagues.

The level of cross-training exhibited by Khalil is a powerful example within the EOC. Her willingness to learn and adapt not only enhances her own skill set but also fosters a culture of collaboration and mutual respect among her colleagues.

"Her attitude of being happy to help wherever she's needed fosters a collaborative environment and strengthens the team dynamic," remarked Emergency Operations Planning Lead, Rebecca Fosnight.