Fernando Almanza: Building Resilience Through Sustainability
That mission led him to Colorado Mountain College's Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Sustainability program.
"Some people may not immediately connect sustainability with emergency management," Almanza says. "But sustainability provides a framework for building systems that last and communities that can adapt to future challenges."
Before joining Eagle County, Almanza worked as a 911 dispatcher, where he saw firsthand how emergencies affect people and how critical communication can be during a crisis. As the first bilingual dispatcher on his agency's SWAT/SOU team, he also recognized the need to make emergency services more accessible for immigrant families. He created "First Responders: Heroes in the Shadows," a community education initiative that helped more than 1,100 residents learn how to communicate effectively with emergency dispatchers.
Today, Almanza sees clear connections between sustainability and emergency management. Both disciplines emphasize long-term planning, resource stewardship, and preparing communities to thrive in the face of future challenges.
Returning to college as an adult learner, he found that CMC's Integrated Sustainability program helped him connect years of real-world experience with new perspectives and strategies.
"The program has challenged me to think differently about the systems that shape our communities," he says. "It really changes how you see the world."
As a bilingual public servant, Almanza remains passionate about ensuring that emergency information is accessible to everyone.
"Education is one of the most powerful tools we have," he says. "If we want stronger, more resilient communities, we need to make sure everyone has access to the information and resources they need."
For adult learners considering a return to college, Almanza offers simple advice: "It's never too late. The experience you've gained throughout your life can make your education even more meaningful."