Who Are We?
At Erie Prep, we are a dedicated team of certified Emergency Managers with a proven track record of expertise and commitment. Our mission is simple: when disaster strikes, we make sure those we serve remain resilient and prepared.
With years of hands-on experience in emergency response, risk assessment, and disaster recovery, our team brings unparalleled knowledge and a genuine passion for empowering agencies, organizations, and individuals to strengthen their readiness. We have worked with government bodies, private sector firms, non-profits, and community groups, tailoring our approach to meet each unique set of needs. This unwavering dedication shines through in everything we do, setting us apart as leaders in emergency preparedness.
Our comprehensive services include in-depth training programs, strategic planning workshops, customized emergency response plans, and real-time crisis support. We pride ourselves on offering practical, actionable solutions that go beyond theoretical frameworks. This approach ensures that our partners are not only compliant but also genuinely equipped to handle emergencies with confidence.
Our approach isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about cultivating a culture of readiness that equips you for any challenge. We build strong, lasting partnerships with those we serve, grounded in trust, clear communication, and shared goals.
Partner with Erie Prep and experience the confidence that comes from knowing you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.
Our team
Thad HIcks, Ph.D, CEM, MEP
Principal Consultant
Thad Hicks serves as Principal Trainer and Consultant for Erie Prep. As an emergency management professional and retired police officer with well over 25 years experience, Thad is considered a subject matter expert in emergency preparedness and Emergency Exercises and Drills. Thad has worked with and and trained groups all over the globe.
In addition to his work with Erie Prep, Thad is an Emergency Management & Criminal Justice professor at Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Mount Vernon Ohio. He also serves with The Salvation Army as the Emergency Disaster Services Liaison for the State of Ohio.
Thad is a Certified Emergency Manager, (CEM), and a Master Exercise Practitioner, (MEP),. Thad earned an M.A. in Conflict Transformation, and a PhD in Intercultural Studies.
Jim Bolen, MS, OCEM
Senior Consultant
Jim Bolen serves is a Senior Consultant for Erie Prep. Jim has over 15 years experience in public safety, including over 10 years experience in emergency management. Throughout the course of his career, Jim has had the opportunity to deploy to several natural disasters including Hurricanes Sandy, Irma, and Ian.
Jim currently serves as the Director of the Butler County (Ohio) Emergency Management Agency and as an adjunct Emergency Management professor at Ohio Christian University. Jim is also a member of the Butler County Incident Management Team where he serves as a Planning Section Chief, Public Information Officer, and Liaison Officer.
Jim holds an Ohio Certified Emergency Manager certification, a M.S. in Safety, Security, & Emergency Management with dual concentrations in Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and is a graduate of FEMA’s National Emergency Management Advanced Academy (NEMAA).
