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Malachi’s journey in emergency management began when he served as a Fire Suppression Aide for the San Bernardino County Fire Department. This role laid the foundation for his expertise in fire management and operational response, where he honed his skills in executing firefighting strategies during critical incidents. Building on this experience, Malachi transitioned to CAL FIRE, serving as a Firefighter. During his time with CAL FIRE, he responded to numerous wildfires across California, where he played a pivotal role in protecting communities, managing fire suppression tactics, and collaborating with other first responders.

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He later joined the Glendale Fire Department as a Fire Environmental Safety Specialist, where he expanded his scope to include fire safety protocols, environmental hazard mitigation, and community outreach. His work was instrumental in raising awareness about fire prevention and safety measures, ensuring the protection of both natural resources and human life.

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Malachi’s career took a significant step forward when he became the Emergency Services Coordinator and Tribal Nations Liaison for the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). In this role, he provided technical guidance and expertise on emergency management protocols to state, local, and Tribal Governments. He was integral in fostering relationships with tribal nations, ensuring their inclusion in emergency planning, response, and recovery efforts. This role showcased Malachi’s ability to bridge cultural and operational gaps, enabling more inclusive and effective disaster management strategies.

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Malachi’s leadership abilities were further recognized when he joined Southern California Edison (SCE) as an Emergency Management Advisor. In this capacity, he manages large Incident Management Teams responsible for response operations and protection of critical infrastructure. His role at SCE allows him to apply his expertise in managing complex disaster response operations, coordinating with diverse stakeholders, and ensuring that SCE’s emergency preparedness and mitigation efforts are robust and effective. His leadership contributed to the resilience of the region’s energy infrastructure during natural disasters and other large-scale incidents.

 

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Incident Management

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Currently, Malachi serves as a Division Group Supervisor (DIVS) for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). In this pivotal role, Malachi is responsible for implementing the portion of the Incident Action Plan (IAP) by supervising assigned resources within the Incident Command System (ICS). He plays a crucial role in operational oversight, ensuring that the IAP is executed effectively and efficiently.

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As Division Group Supervisor, Malachi reports on the progress of operations and provides status updates on assigned resources, ensuring that key decision-makers are informed of the latest developments. He also contributes vital assessments and context to create a shared operational picture, enhancing the overall situational awareness during disaster response efforts. His role as a DIVS underscores his leadership in high-pressure environments, where precision and coordination are essential to achieving successful outcomes.

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Incident Management and Operational Expertise

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Throughout his career, Malachi has served in several key roles on both State and Federal Incident Management Teams, where he has been recognized for his ability to lead under pressure. He has held leadership roles such as Plans Section Chief, Liaison Officer, Regional Duty Officer, and Division Supervisor , demonstrating his versatility in various disaster response scenarios. Whether managing response operations during wildfires, coordinating resources during public health crises, or leading teams in disaster recovery efforts, Malachi has consistently delivered results that prioritize public safety and community resilience.

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His role as Disaster Survivor Assistance Specialist further exemplifies his dedication to disaster recovery. Malachi has worked closely with disaster survivors, helping them navigate the complexities of post-disaster recovery, providing vital resources, and ensuring that communities can rebuild after crises. His compassion, combined with his technical expertise, has made a significant impact on the lives of countless disaster survivors.

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Education and Certifications

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Malachi’s academic background further underscores his commitment to leadership and emergency management. He holds a Master of Science in Leadership, with an emphasis on Disaster Preparedness, from Grand Canyon University. This advanced education has equipped him with the leadership skills necessary to manage complex disaster scenarios and coordinate diverse teams effectively. Additionally, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Communications from California State University, Sacramento, a degree that has strengthened his ability to navigate cross-cultural communication challenges, particularly when working with  diverse communities.

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Malachi has also earned several key certifications that complement his expertise. He participated in the United Nations Summer Program at Seton Hall University, studying the Global Sustainability Goals, which deepened his understanding of global strategies for long-term development and resilience. Additionally, he holds an Infrastructure Disaster Management Certificate from Texas A&M, further solidifying his proficiency in managing critical infrastructure in disaster situations.

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Commitment to Public Safety and Resilience

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Malachi’s dedication to public safety is rooted in his passion for building resilient communities. His ability to collaborate with stakeholders from various sectors—government, private industry, and tribal nations—has made him a respected leader in the field of emergency management. His approach to disaster response is not only operationally sound but also centered on the human impact of emergencies. By prioritizing both the technical and emotional aspects of disaster response, Malachi has consistently helped communities recover from crises stronger and more prepared for future challenges.

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His work in improving program efficiency, disaster preparedness, and response protocols has  helped improve the organizations he has served. Whether leading wildfire response efforts, advising on infrastructure resilience, or supporting disaster survivors, Malachi has proven himself to be an indispensable asset to any emergency management team.

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Looking Ahead

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As Malachi continues his career, his focus remains on enhancing public safety and resilience. His vision is to further develop strategies that integrate cutting-edge technology, community engagement, and cross-sector collaboration to ensure that all communities—regardless of size or resources—are prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow’s disasters. His leadership, experience, and passion for emergency management will undoubtedly continue to shape the field, as he works tirelessly to protect lives, infrastructure, and communities from the ever-growing threats of natural and man-made disasters.