About

Emerging from the bustling landscapes of Jacksonville, Florida, Todd Smith Jacksonville stands tall as a symbol of unwavering dedication and a beacon of public service. In his esteemed roles as the Director of Emergency Management and Chief of Emergency Preparedness, he has carved a niche for himself, seamlessly blending leadership finesse with a relentless commitment to the public's well-being.

Saga of Service

His foray into public service took flight in 1992 at the Nassau County Fire and Rescue Department. His prowess in decision-making and intuitive leadership nudged him toward the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department by 1997. Here, as the Special Operations Training Manager, he mentored and guided teams, navigating them through intricate challenges with panache.

Spanning his illustrious tenure, he has donned various hats—from strategizing agile emergency countermeasures and optimizing emergency operations frameworks to playing a pivotal role in the inception of the country's pioneering drive-thru testing center for COVID-19. His robust presence was especially conspicuous during challenging times, particularly when marshaling defenses against hurricanes such as Matthew, Irma, and Dorian.

Pedagogical Pursuits

A fervent advocate for continuous learning, he boasts dual Master's degrees in Business and Public Administration. In addition to this, he's adorned with a Graduate Executive Certificate in Public Administration and is currently traversing the path towards a Ph.D. Esteemed certifications from renowned institutions like the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association and the International Association of Emergency Managers further augment his academic badges of honor.

Galaxy of Honors

His ceaseless drive has been aptly recognized and celebrated. Amongst the glittering accolades in Todd A Smith Jacksonville's repertoire are the prestigious Valor and Exceptional Service Award presented by the Liberty Mutual Insurance Company, numerous commendations from JFRD, and the revered Robert G. Mayes Excellence Award from Columbia Southern University.

Passions Beyond Duty

Outside the spectrum of his demanding profession, he is drawn towards nature's serenity and the exhilaration of outdoor adventures. This intrinsic love can be traced back to his eclectic upbringing, enriched by the diverse landscapes of the United States and the cultural vibrancy of Japan, stemming from his military-associated background.

Touch of Philanthropy

Echoing his ethos of holistic service, in 2020, he extended a helping hand to Life Outreach International Water for Life. His generous donation sprouted a freshwater well in Africa, underlining his commitment to addressing the global water crisis.

On the Horizon

As a testament to his unparalleled contributions, an accolade awaits. He is set to be anointed with the 2023 IAEM-USA Emergency Manager of the Year by the International Association of Emergency Managers in a grandeur-filled ceremony on November 8, 2023.

Todd Smith Jacksonville's odyssey reflects a blend of tenacity, moral fiber, and an insatiable zeal for community welfare. His indelible mark continues to be a source of inspiration, lighting the way for many.