About

About Me

Todd Smith Jacksonville is a pinnacle of integrity and dedicated public service, making him an esteemed public administrative leader. As the Director of Emergency Management and Chief of Emergency Preparedness, he has demonstrated decades of exceptional leadership skills with an unwavering commitment to public safety.

Background and Career Journey

His journey in public administration started in 1992 with the Nassau County Fire and Rescue Department. His unparalleled wisdom and decisiveness soon led him to join the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department in 1997. Rising through the ranks at JFRD with perseverance and dedication, he later served as Special Operations Training Manager, leading multiple teams to success in challenging environments.

Over the years, his dynamic roles have encompassed many responsibilities, from coordinating emergency responses and refining emergency operations processes to setting up the first nationwide drive-thru test site for COVID-19. With unwavering integrity, he has been a pillar during major evacuation orders and emergency shelter operations, including the responses to hurricanes Matthew, Irma, and Dorian.

Educational Achievements

His thirst for knowledge is a testament to his wisdom. Todd A Smith Jacksonville has earned Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Public Administration. He further completed a Graduate Executive Certificate in Public Administration and is working towards his Ph.D. in Public Administration. His list of credentials also includes certifications from esteemed bodies such as the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association and the International Association of Emergency Managers.

Awards and Recognitions

His unwavering perseverance and service commitment have received recognition throughout his career. He has received numerous awards, including the Valor and Exceptional Service Award from the Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and countless particular unit citations from JFRD. He was also bestowed with the Robert G. Mayes Excellence Award from Columbia Southern University.

Hobbies

As the saying goes, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” the same applies to him. Despite his demanding career, he profoundly loves nature and outdoor activities. His appreciation of the environment roots back to his childhood, growing up military-dependent and living in various places throughout the United States and Japan.

Philanthropic Involvements

Smith showed immense integrity and commitment to improving the human condition in line with his admirable values. He donated significantly to Life Outreach International Water for Life to create a freshwater well in Africa in 2020. His donation manifested his conscious effort to mitigate the widespread lack of clean and safe drinking water access.

Upcoming Notable Events

Keeping up with his impeccable track record, Todd Smith Jacksonville has been honored to be named the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) 2023 IAEM-USA Emergency Manager of the Year. The award is slated to be presented in a formal ceremony on November 8, 2023.

His life is marked by his perseverance, integrity, and wisdom. It is a tale of dedication, hard work, and resilience. His passion for public service has significantly impacted countless lives and continues to inspire everyone.