If a weather disaster or other emergency forces Georgia Tech to shut down, it will be crucial to have plans in place to help normal campus operations resume.

That’s why the Institute has implemented a continuity of operations planning (COOP) initiative to ensure that Tech’s units are prepared to meet this challenge head-on.

“It’s important for us to develop continuity of operations plans at the departmental level on up to the Institute level,” said Andy Altizer, director of emergency preparedness. “Without these key pieces of information, Georgia Tech will be lost following an emergency or disaster.”

To get the ball rolling, the Office of Emergency Preparedness is offering COOP training throughout the summer. The course will provide personnel with a template for building their own departmental plans.  

Participants will learn how to conduct a hazard analysis, and identify and prioritize departmental critical functions.

They will also learn how to use GT Ready, a business continuity planning tool that is specific to
the Institute and increases Tech’s ability to keep operating following disruptive events. Additional information about GT Ready can be found at www.gtready.gatech.edu.

The 90-minute classes are limited to 15 people. All departmental business managers, information technology personnel, and building managers should consider attending.

“We’re especially encouraging people in administration and finance units to take the training as soon as possible, since this division will be required to have its plans in place by Dec. 31,” Altizer said. “Other units including the Office of the Provost, Student Affairs, Institute Communications, the Athletic Association, and Development will receive information on their planning requirements later in the summer.”  

The next training session will be offered on Wednesday, June 26, from 10 a.m. to noon in room 201 at 811 Marietta St. To register for this session or future sessions, click here.