Gary Scronce, a distinguished Senior Director at IEM, brings over three decades of emergency management and homeland security experience. Having contributed significantly to emergency preparedness for both natural and man-made hazards in hundreds of jurisdictions, Gary is a pillar in the field. His expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of emergency management and homeland security consultation, where he has been instrumental at IEM for over 25 years.

Before his tenure at IEM, Gary dedicated 12 years to engineering for Gulf States Utilities and Energy. He spent eight years as a vital member of the River Bend nuclear power plant’s emergency response organization. His extensive nuclear engineering and emergency response background gives him a unique perspective on disaster preparedness and response, making him an invaluable asset.

Gary’s experience is deeply rooted in real-world situations, having personally weathered major hurricanes like Andrew, Rita, and Gustav in Louisiana. His resilience and firsthand knowledge have been pivotal in his role in developing key emergency preparedness initiatives, including the notable Hurricane Pam planning exercise before Hurricane Katrina. In 2006, he managed a comprehensive review of emergency plans for the Department of Homeland Security’s Nationwide Plan Review, significantly contributing to the most extensive knowledge base on catastrophic preparedness.

Gary has overseen hundreds of technical assistance deliveries nationwide in his expansive career, including most major urban areas and territories. He has managed security and preparedness projects for significant ports and mass transit agencies and conducted statewide capability assessments. His role in shaping emergency management policy and guidance, particularly concerning Presidential Preparedness Directive 8, showcases his deep involvement in national security and infrastructure resilience.

Gary is an active member of emergency management associations, including the International Association of Emergency Managers, the National Emergency Management Association, and the Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Association. He has served in various capacities, contributing to committees and boards that shape emergency management policies and practices. He holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Kansas State University, underlining his technical expertise in a field critical to national safety and preparedness. His role on the Board of Directors of Arbor Family Health and involvement in the International Association of Emergency Managers’ Bylaws Committee highlight his commitment to community health and emergency management governance.