Meet Our Executive Team
Discover the dedicated individuals leading Mahaska CERT in 2026. This team is at the heart of our mission, ensuring Mahaska County remains prepared and resilient. Learn about their roles, contributions, and the goals they're committed to achieving for our community.
President-Jim Walker
Jim serves as President of Mahaska County CERT and leads the team as Chief during activations. His Steady leadership and commitment to service ensure the team is organized, effective, and ready when called upon. He has been with the team from the start in July 2010.
Contact Chief Walker by email @ jwalker@mahaskacountyia.gov
Vice President-Tim Stursma
Tim Stursma is a dedicated and highly valued member of CERT, since February 2021, known for his steady reliability, strong work ethic, and commitment to helping others. Since joining the team, Tim has consistently demonstrated a willingness to step in wherever he is needed, bringing a calm, practical. Respected for his dependability, teamwork, and positive attitude, Tim continues to play a key role in strengthening CERT’s capabilities and supporting the community. His quiet leadership and consistent service embody the spirit of preparedness and volunteerism at the heart of CERT.
Secretary/Treasurer-Jane Walker
Jane has been a dedicated member of the team since August 2013. She serves as Secretary/Treasurer and plays a vital role in maintaining the team’s organization and readiness. During activations, she also steps confidently into a team lead position, offering steady guidance and support. Deeply committed to CERT’s mission, Jane continually looks for ways to strengthen and improve the team. She ensures needed supplies are ordered, keeps careful track of finances, and helps maintain smooth operations behind the scenes. Her reliability, initiative, and attention to detail make her an invaluable part of the team.
Our Dedicated Board Members and Sponsor
Terrie McElroy, Cory Patterson, and Guy Almon provide invaluable guidance, support decision-making, and help shape the direction of Mahaska CERT. They assist with oversight of programs, community engagement, and CERT operations, ensuring we continue to meet community needs. Josh Stevens, our dedicated sponsor, provides crucial support to help sustain Mahaska CERT training, equipment, and community preparedness efforts.
Terrie McElroy quickly became an integral part of the team, bringing energy and initiative from day one in July 2010. Terrie is known for her compassion, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to preparedness and public safety. Whether she is guiding new volunteers, or providing support during emergency responses, Terrie leads with both confidence and kindness. Her reliability and deep sense of service continue to strengthen CERT’s mission and make a lasting impact on everyone she works with.
Cory Patterson joined CERT in August 2017 and quickly became an essential member of the team. From his first day, he brought a strong sense of energy, initiative, and commitment to the mission. Cory is known for stepping in wherever needed, learning rapidly, and consistently pushing projects forward with enthusiasm.
Guy Almon since June of 2018 Is a respected member of CERT, known for his dedication, and willingness to step up whenever the team needs him. With a strong sense of responsibility and a deep commitment to community preparedness, Guy has become a trusted presence across countless trainings, activations, and team initiatives.
In addition to his CERT responsibilities, Guy serves as Chaplain for the First Responders, offering vital emotional and spiritual support during times of stress, crisis, and recovery. His compassion, steady reassurance, and ability to bring comfort to others make him an invaluable resource not only to the CERT team, but to the wider first responder community.
As Executive Officer for Mahaska County CERT and Director of Mahaska County Emergency Management, Josh guides the county’s planning, training, and response efforts. With a broad foundation in public safety and operations, he focuses on one goal: making sure the team and community are prepared when it matters most.
United in purpose: empowering our community
Together, the 2026 leadership team ensures Mahaska CERT is trained, organized, equipped, and connected to the community—so volunteers can respond effectively when emergencies happen. Their collective goal for 2026 focuses on growing membership, improving training, strengthening coordination with local responders, and ensuring Mahaska CERT remains ready to support Mahaska County.