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When Derek Bailey began his career as a medical aide in the British Army, he never imagined that one day he'd be managing disaster recovery efforts in the remote regions of Alberta. Nevertheless, what stayed constant throughout his journey, from military service to the finance sector and from transit safety to emergency medical response, was a deep drive to help others in their most vulnerable moments. 

Today, Derek is a Case Manager for the , supporting communities impacted by floods, wildfires, and other non-insurable disasters. His job is complex and wide-reaching, from helping municipalities recover the cost of roads damaged by fire suppression efforts to supporting families who’ve lost their homes. 

And it all started with his decision to study at the ����AV (����AV). 

A career rooted in purpose

“I’ve always been driven by the idea that if I can help, I should,” Derek says. “When I served as a medic in the army, there were two unofficial mottos that stayed with me: ‘When your luck runs out, we run in,’ and ‘As one who serves.’ That sense of duty never left me.” 

After moving back to Canada, Derek explored different fields – from banking to insurance to transit safety – before eventually training as an emergency medical responder (EMR) and emergency medical technician (EMT). It wasn’t until he discovered ����AV’s Emergency and Security Management diploma program that he found the right fit for his long-term goals. 

Flexible learning, real-world results

One reason Derek chose ����AV was its fully online format, which allowed him to continue working while studying. “The flexibility was key,” he explains. “I could learn at my own pace, and as long as I met my deadlines, I had the freedom to balance work and study. It gave me control over my education and opened the door to new possibilities.” 

Beyond the course structure, the people he met during the program had a significant impact on his learning. Throughout the program, Derek built meaningful relationships with instructors and classmates. One professor connected him to a volunteer opportunity with North Shore Emergency Management (NSEM), while another continues to support him in developing a real-world emergency response protocol. 

“These connections weren’t just academic – they were professional. They helped me apply what I was learning in ways that directly impacted communities.” 

Prepared to make a difference

Now working while also completing his degree in Emergency and Security Management at ����AV, Derek uses the skills he gained in his diploma program every day. 

“I work with people who’ve just experienced life-altering disasters,” he says. “What I learned at ����AV around disaster recovery frameworks and empathetic communication helps me approach each case with technical knowledge and with real compassion.”

He recalls one particular case where a family’s home was destroyed by flooding. They were overwhelmed by the recovery process and didn’t know where to start. Derek walked them through it step by step, using the structure and clarity he learned from ����AV’s coursework to guide them with patience and understanding. 

“It’s not just about paperwork. It’s about people. ����AV helped me find that balance.” 

Looking ahead

Derek’s career goals have evolved since beginning his studies. While he’s committed to emergency management, he’s now exploring business continuity roles in the healthcare sector or at post-secondary institutions. 

Derek feels more equipped than ever, having gained knowledge in crisis communications, disaster management, and security strategy through ����AV’s broad curriculum. “I’ve gained knowledge in areas I didn’t even know existed. And I’ve learned how to look at challenges from multiple perspectives.” 

Words of advice

“If you’re looking for a program that’s remote, flexible, and lets you take ownership of your learning – this is it,” Derek says. “But like anything else, you get out of it what you put in.” 

He encourages future students to connect with instructors, engage with peers, and take advantage of every opportunity the program offers. 

“You can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets,” he adds with a smile. “Put in the effort, and the rewards will come.” 

Empowering future leaders in emergency management 

Derek Bailey’s story is just one example of how ����AV programs are equipping students with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to serve their communities with purpose. 

Whether you're just starting out or seeking a new direction, ����AV’s Emergency and Security Management programs provide the foundation for a career that truly makes a difference.