Natalie Graver, MEP, is an accomplished emergency manager with more than a decade of experience leading complex preparedness, response, and recovery initiatives nationwide. As Vice President of Training & Exercise Services at The Olson Group, Ltd., she provides strategic oversight for large-scale, multi-jurisdictional programs spanning state, regional, and local partners across the country.
Natalie serves as Program Manager for the Delaware Statewide Exercise Contract, where she directs the full lifecycle design, conduct, and evaluation of all-hazards exercises supporting the Delaware Emergency Management Agency. She has led more than 65 discussion- and operations-based exercises addressing continuity of operations, complex coordinated terrorist attacks (CCTA), cybersecurity, active violence, mass gatherings, severe weather, and emerging threats. Her work supports public safety agencies, elected officials, higher education institutions, critical infrastructure partners, and private-sector stakeholders.
A nationally recognized expert in exercise design and HSEEP methodology, Natalie specializes in building integrated preparedness programs that move organizations beyond compliance to operational performance. She has served as lead designer, controller, evaluator, and simulation cell director for complex exercises across the National Capital Region, Southern California, and the Mid-Atlantic.
In addition to her preparedness leadership, Natalie brings real-world operational experience. She has served as EOC Manager for Arlington County during the COVID-19 pandemic response, the January 6th Capitol Insurrection, the 2021 Presidential Inauguration, and other high-profile activations. Her experience spans executive coordination, policy implementation, and cross-sector response integration under high-pressure conditions.
Natalie was named Virginia Emergency Management Professional of the Year (2023–2024) by the Virginia Emergency Management Association. She is a certified Master Exercise Practitioner (MEP) and holds a Graduate Certificate in Emergency Management and Homeland Security from George Mason University and a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security from St. John’s University.
Natalie lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband, their two daughters, and their dog, Marvin. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, reading, and watching documentaries.