Domestic Preparedness Panel- Countdown to the Cup

Transitioning from planning to real-time operations in the final days before FIFA World Cup kickoff

Fort Worth Convention Center Arena, May 26, 2026, 3:00-4:00 p.m.

With just weeks away from the start of the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in the United States, emergency management agencies are transitioning from planning to full operational readiness. This panel brings together local, state, and other agency subject matter experts to discuss the critical “last mile” actions necessary to host coordinated and secure games. Panelists will examine final operational readiness, including multi-agency coordination and threat assessment integration. The discussion will highlight real-world challenges, identify remaining gaps, and offer actionable insights to strengthen operational execution in the final days before kickoff. This session will provide practical takeaways to enhance situational awareness, reinforce interagency collaboration, and ensure jurisdictions are fully prepared to operate under the heightened demands of a global mega-event.

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to evaluate and apply “last mile” operational readiness strategies for large-scale special events, using the FIFA World Cup 2026 as a current case study. Learners will identify key components of final-phase preparedness, including multi-agency coordination and integrated threat assessment under heightened operational demands. Participants will also analyze common gaps that emerge in the transition from planning to execution and develop actionable approaches to strengthen situational awareness and interagency collaboration. Ultimately, this session equips emergency management professionals with practical tools and insights to enhance coordinated response capabilities and ensure effective, secure operations during complex, high-visibility events.

Master of Ceremonies

Catherine Feinman, Domestic Preparedness Editor in Chief

Moderator

Randy Meshell, TDEM Preparedness Division Chief

Panelists

Irish Hancock, Emergency Management Administrator, City of Arlington
Kevin Starbuck, TDEM Region 2 Assistant Chief
Chief Larry Satterwhite, Director of Public Safety and Homeland Security
Shaun Miller, TDEM Region 4 Assistant Chief
Christina Foley, Special Agent in Charge, United States Secret Service