Over the past several years, the state has experienced an unprecedented number of emergencies and disasters. As these climate-driven natural disasters become more severe in California, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) staff has met each new challenge head-on.
The nearly 2,000 staff at Cal OES have responded to increasingly complex disasters in fresh and innovative ways, strengthening the foundation of emergency management to prepare for, respond to and recover from all types of emergencies and disasters.
This week, Cal OES welcomes you to learn more about Brian Smith, Senior Emergency Services Coordinator (ESC) with Disaster Logistics, which manages and coordinates resources to support local government operations during preparedness, response and recovery disaster phases.
Smith is passionate about supporting Cal OES’ missions and Californians in their times of need.
During his 18 years with Cal OES, Smith has held a variety of positions including grants processing, facilities and business services and the state warning center before joining disaster logistics eight years ago.
It was during his first deployment to a local assistant center not long after he was hired, that reaffirmed Smith was in the right place.
“I got to work with survivors who were directly impacted by the fires down in southern California and ever since that day, I knew this was the place for me,” Smith said. “Eighteen years later, it never ceases to amaze me how much we benefit and support local citizens in their worst and darkest times.”
As a Senior ESC, Smith leads a team that responds to disasters and recovery efforts. The work can include everything from setting up a debris flow sorting location to providing shelter cots and kits for those forced from their homes.
“A lot of what logistics does is sight unseen,” Smith said. “There’s all these pieces moving and if we are doing our job then it’s going to be happening seamlessly, without us in the spotlight. We’re really there to help and support other people.”