State Emergency Operations Center, Frankfort, KY.

Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM) hosted a credentialing ceremony for the Kentucky Qualification System (KQS) at the State Emergency Operations Center in Frankfort. The event recognized Kevin Vogelpohl for successfully completing the rigorous training and education requirements needed to earn his KQS credentials. Mr. Vogelpohl is the sixth person to earn their KQS credentials in 2025.

Vogelpohl is now officially certified to serve on Type 3 Incident Management Teams (IMTs) as Planning Section Chief. IMTs play a critical role in disaster response and large public events by keeping operations organized, communication clear, and safety a top priority. Achieving this credential reflects a high level of dedication and experience, qualities that strengthen Kentucky’s ability to respond to emergencies effectively.

The Kentucky Qualification System is part of the Commonwealth’s implementation of the National Qualification System (NQS). Established in 2023 with the formation of an advisory committee of state and local partners, KQS was created to build and maintain a roster of fully trained and credentialed professionals who can serve on IMTs and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Assistance Teams. These teams are available to assist during major incidents within Kentucky or, when requested, across state lines.

IMTs consist of qualified personnel who manage the operational, logistical, planning, fiscal, and safety aspects of emergency incidents and planned events. A typical team includes an Incident Commander, Command and General Staff such as Operations, Planning, and Finance Section Chiefs as well as Public Information, Safety, and Liaison Officers.

“The presence of credentialed persons on IMTs and EOC Assistance Teams adds expertise and credibility. The credentialing process ensures these individuals can perform their work on these important teams,” said Dr. Charlie Harris, KQS Program Manager. “Kevin is the second Planning Section Chief to be credentialed in KQS.”

Kevin Vogelpohl, pictured above receiving his credentialing from KYEM Director Eric Gibson, currently serves as the Director of Boone County Emergency Management. He possesses extensive emergency management experience, including service on an IMT during the Eastern Kentucky Floods in 2022.

Eric Gibson, Director of the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management, presented Mr. Vogelpohl with a framed certificate of accreditation and two official KQS uniform patches. Certification packets are reviewed by a Qualification Review Board made up of first responders, emergency management personnel, law enforcement, and other emergency response professionals.

Congratulations to Kevin Vogelpohl on this outstanding professional achievement. His dedication and expertise enhance Kentucky’s statewide emergency response readiness and serve as an inspiration to their peers.

Members from the following agencies were present for the ceremony: 
• Kentucky Energy and Environmental Cabinet
• Kentucky Department for Public Health
• Kentucky Emergency Management
• Kentucky State Police
• Kentucky Fire Commission
• Kentucky Chapters of NENA (National Emergency Number Association) and APCO (Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials)

Are you interested in learning more about the KQS process or pursuing credentialing opportunities? Contact Dr. Charlie Harris, KQS Program Manager, at (502) 607-5707 or charlie.harris@ky-em.org

Additional information about KQS is available online at https://tinyurl.com/KY-Qualification-System

Authored by: Dr. Charles K. Harris, KYEM In Service Training Supervisor
Edited & posted by: David Davis, KYEM PIO
Photos by: David Davis

More pictures from the ceremony can be found in the KYEM Hosts Fifth KQS Credentialing Ceremony Dec. 2025 Gallery

Download the Original Blog PDF KYEM Hosts Fifth KQS Credentialing Ceremony Blog 17 DEC 2025