Published 3:06 pm Friday, October 24, 2025
By Staff Reports
The Carter County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has expanded its ability to respond to emergencies with a series of new equipment and technology upgrades designed to strengthen preparedness across the county.
The upgrades were made possible through an anonymous donation earlier this year, allowing EMA to enhance its fleet, operations and communication systems.
Among the new additions are a 30-foot Rock Solid mobile command post and a 2025 Ford F-350 STX. The mobile command post is a fully equipped operations center featuring heat and air conditioning, an electric awning, LED scene lighting, a conference table for six, four workstations, three display monitors and integrated Starlink internet with a T-Mobile cradle for reliable connectivity in any location. The F-350, equipped with a 21,000-pound towing capacity, gooseneck hitch, spray-in bed liner and bed cover, will be used to tow the command post and other EMA assets throughout Carter County.
“These new assets strengthen our ability to respond quickly and effectively in times of crisis,” said Carter County Mayor Patty Woodby. “They will not only enhance the safety and preparedness of our own community but also support our neighboring counties across the region when emergencies arise. This investment reflects our continued commitment to readiness, collaboration and protecting the people we serve.”
Additional items purchased through the donation include an aluminum carport for equipment storage, a marked pop-up tent and tablecloth for public events, and professional video and media tools to enhance operations within the county’s Emergency Operations Center. A branded media wall was also added for EMA’s public information officer to use when addressing the public or press during emergencies.
EMA Director Cathy Umrichin said the upgrades will help both first responders and residents. “Without this generous donation to the Elizabethton-Carter County EMA, it would have taken years to obtain the equipment that was much needed, especially after what was seen during Helene,” Umrichin said. “Our purpose is to provide coordination and resources to the first responders of both the city and county as well as ensure that residents are prepared for the next emergency.”
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The agency is also preparing to launch the Elizabethton-Carter County EMA mobile app, which will provide residents with real-time safety alerts, preparedness information and public safety updates from both city and county agencies. The app will be available for download through the Apple App Store and Google Play.
The new equipment went into service earlier this month and was first utilized during the Bassmaster Tournament at Watauga Lake, where it provided on-site command and communication support for EMA and partner agencies.
Carter County EMA expands emergency capabilities with new equipment and technology upgrades – Elizabethton Star
