12/08/2025
🌟 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT TEAM SPOTLIGHT: DEPUTY CHIEF SAM GIBSON 🌟
Today we’re honored to spotlight Deputy Chief Sam Gibson — a leader whose passion for service, community resilience, and preparedness has shaped the direction of Emergency Management for Cole County and Jefferson City.
Sam began his journey with Cole County EMS in 2020, bringing with him years of public safety experience spanning corrections, EMS, emergency departments, and even theme park safety. In June 2025, he stepped into the role of Deputy Chief of Emergency Management/Emergency Management Director, where he now leads all phases of emergency management for both the County and the City.
In this role, Sam oversees planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery initiatives; manages the Emergency Operations Center; directs disaster response activities; strengthens interagency partnerships; and leads community preparedness efforts that keep residents informed and safe. His work bridges every layer of public safety—from responders on the front lines to the residents who rely on timely alerts, clear communication, and coordinated action.
Sam brings a strong academic foundation to his leadership as well. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Management from Saint Louis University and a Master’s Degree in Management and Leadership from Western Governors University, blending technical expertise with strategic leadership to support our region’s evolving needs.
When asked what inspired him to work in Emergency Management, Sam shared that his years in EMS showed him how preparation and communication can change outcomes. That experience drove his desire to take a broader role—one focused not just on response, but on building a safer, stronger community before disaster ever strikes. Today, one of his favorite parts of the job is bringing agencies, organizations, and community members together for a shared mission.
Outside of work, Sam enjoys traveling, being with his family, and spending time with his pets—who he says are very much part of the family. He and his spouse are also foster parents and are currently in the process of adopting an incredible young man, a journey that has brought immense joy and pride to their lives.
Sam’s message to the community is simple: stay informed. Signing up for Smart911 and customizing your notification preferences is one of the easiest ways to stay connected during emergencies and give responders the information they need to help you quickly.
To Sam, “building a resilient community” means working together—residents, responders, and partners alike—to prepare for challenges early, support one another during difficult times, and emerge stronger on the other side.
His favorite guiding reminder comes from Benjamin Franklin:
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”
It’s a philosophy that shows up in everything he leads, from planning and training to public outreach and community education.
We are grateful for Sam’s leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to protecting the people of Cole County and Jefferson City.
Thank you, Deputy Chief Gibson, for your service and for helping strengthen the resilience of our community every day.
