In the Spotlight: Ken Spears

As the emergency manager for the Center for Domestic Preparedness, Ken Spears is responsible for ensuring those on campus know what to do in the event of an emergency and are aware of hazards in the local area.

Spears’ first introduction to what is now the CDP came during his time in the Air Force, when he worked in emergency management and received chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear training on Fort McClellan.

He first worked for FEMA as a watch analyst in FEMA’s Region 4 office in Atlanta, serving as a conduit between the office and various state emergency agencies in the southeast.

During his career, Spears has assisted in the aftermath of airplane crashes, hurricanes and other natural disasters both in the United States and overseas.

“I enjoy having a role where I take care of people,” said Spears.

“I like the professionalism of the people at the CDP,” he added. “Everyone has a vested interest in making the organization work.”