Public safety professionals are tasked with ensuring public safety and enabling most of us to walk through our days without giving undue attention to our own personal safety and well-being.
Robert Gerlach (Baldwin High School class of 1991) has had a significant career in safety, with experience in various roles that brings valuable perspective to his work. He has worked in law enforcement, healthcare, and more. He reflects. “Since graduating high school, I have continuously served in various capacities within public safety, transitioning from roles as a police officer, EMT, and paramedic to positions as a firefighter, HazMat team member, and emergency management professional. The dynamic nature of the job has always appealed to me, particularly during chaotic moments, where I find fulfillment in assisting others. Witnessing firsthand how our efforts positively impact individuals during their most challenging moments is profoundly rewarding to me.”
After graduating BHS, Gerlach earned his Bachelor’s degree Administration of Justice with a concentration in Law Enforcement from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master’s degree in Public Administration with a concentration in Homeland Security from Capella University. He now serves as Director of Emergency Management and Threat Assessment at Duquesne University. Gerlach explains, “In my role, I am tasked with guiding, educating, informing, and motivating campus constituents (students, faculty, staff, and visitors) to develop and implement comprehensive emergency planning and strategies. This involves crafting detailed emergency plans to effectively prepare for and respond to various scenarios, as well as creating educational and training materials. Additionally, I facilitate training sessions and drills to ensure the campus community is ready for emergencies. I also provide valuable recommendations on risk management and actively cultivate relationships with first responders, local law enforcement, staff, faculty, administrators, and City of Pittsburgh emergency planners. I serve as the chair of the University Emergency Management Team which is a is a cross-departmental, collaborative group from the Universities’ Departments, Offices, and Divisions who meet regularly to identify and prepare for a variety of possible emergency incidents and chair of the Campus Community Risk Team which is a is a multi-disciplinary team responsible for evaluating possible serious risks to the safety and well-being of the campus community and recommending countermeasures as appropriate. Ultimately, my goal is to prepare the University community to respond adeptly to emergencies that could significantly impact or affect the campus, thus enhancing the institution's overall safety and resilience.”
The skills of diligence, dedication, and flexibility that he uses on a daily basis are ones cultivated throughout his time at Baldwin High School. Gerlach relates, “During my high school years, I dedicated myself to the marching band, a commitment that spanned all four years. The marching band experience, with its para-militaristic organizational structure, emphasized teamwork and often demanded quick adaptation to changing circumstances. This environment resonates deeply with the unpredictability inherent in public safety work, where plans can swiftly unravel, requiring on-the-spot adjustments. Moreover, the rigorous demands of being part of the marching band instilled in me a sense of perseverance that extends into my personal life. I learned firsthand that achieving success requires unwavering effort and determination. The ethos of continuous improvement, ingrained in me during those years, remains a guiding principle. Regardless of one's proficiency, there's always an opportunity to strive for improvement. I attribute much of my growth and character development to my experiences as a member of the Baldwin High School Marching Band. It laid the foundation for the person I am today and provided invaluable lessons that have shaped my journey in public safety and beyond.”
He has the following advice to current BHS students:
- “Embrace teamwork: Working collaboratively with others is important, as success in both academic and professional endeavors often hinges on the ability to effectively collaborate with peers.
- Adaptability is key: Cultivate adaptability and flexibility, as life rarely goes according to plan. Being able to adjust to unforeseen circumstances is a valuable skill in any field.
- Perseverance pays off: Perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges is important. Setbacks are a natural part of the journey, and success often comes to those who persist despite obstacles.
- Continuous improvement mindset: Develop the mindset of lifelong learning and continuous improvement. Always seek ways to enhance their skills and knowledge, regardless of their current level of expertise.
- Cherish past experiences: Reflect on their past experiences and draw lessons from them. Every experience, whether positive or negative, can provide valuable insights that shape their future paths.
- Seize opportunities: Be open to new opportunities and experiences, even if it seems daunting at first. Growth only happens when you step out of your comfort zones to grow personally and professionally.”