Charleston Welcomes New Emergency Management Director!
Charleston County is buzzing with excitement as it welcomes Justin Pierce as its new Director of Emergency Management! Pierce officially stepped into his role on December 2nd, stepping up to lead the charge in keeping our beautiful community safe from natural disasters and other threats.
Asserting Value in Leadership
In a heartfelt statement, Pierce said, “I am truly honored to have been chosen to lead the Charleston County Emergency Management Department and its talented team.” It’s obvious he genuinely appreciates the trust placed in him by Charleston County Government. This new chapter not only underscores his leadership abilities but also highlights the importance of resilience in our area, particularly regarding the ever-looming threats of flooding, hurricanes, and other disasters.
Charleston County Emergency Management doesn’t just play a reactionary role; it is also significantly involved in educating and empowering residents, visitors, and businesses. Pierce made it a point to emphasize this aspect: “The work of Charleston County Emergency Management is essential for the County’s resilience against flooding, hurricanes, and other disasters.” In a fast-changing world, the need for information and tools to navigate emergencies is more crucial than ever!
A Wealth of Experience
Now, let’s take a peek into what makes Justin Pierce the right person for this vital role. With over 20 years of expertise in the fields of homeland security and emergency management, Pierce brings a mountain of knowledge with him. Prior to joining Charleston, he served as the director of emergency management at Los Angeles World Airports. Quite a name to have on your resume! During his time there, he was instrumental in leading the response to COVID-19 and running major planning initiatives for high-profile events like Super Bowl LVI. It’s safe to say he’s well-versed in high-stress situations!
Furthermore, Pierce was the Deputy Chief of the Preparedness Division for the District of Columbia’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency from 2016 to 2019. He played a critical role in managing Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activations and providing support during presidential inaugurations, State of the Union addresses, and even a papal visit. Talk about being in the middle of the action!
Educated and Accomplished
As if his rich experience wasn’t enough, Pierce also boasts impressive academic qualifications. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Tech University and has pursued higher education programs at respected institutions like Georgetown University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He even graduated from the Naval Postgraduate School Executive Leaders Program in July 2024! He truly is a powerhouse of knowledge and skills.
Family First
When he’s not busy keeping Charleston safe, Pierce enjoys spending time with his lovely wife, Marissa, and their two daughters, Kennedy and Madison. It’s clear that family is important to him, and it’s nice to know that he carries that same love and commitment into his professional life.
Looking Ahead
The community can look forward to Pierce’s leadership in Charleston County Emergency Management. Given his extensive background and passion for fostering community resilience, he is set to make impactful changes that will enhance our safety and preparedness for whatever Mother Nature throws our way.
So, here’s to Justin Pierce—a bright new chapter in Charleston’s emergency management history! We are excited to see how he will lead our community in staying safe and prepared in the face of potential challenges. Let’s give him a warm Charleston welcome!
