ares clMr. Michael Moody, W5ALE, has accepted the Emergency Coordinator (EC) Position for Williamson County in District 7 of the ARRL South Texas Section. The district is composed of Bastrop, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Milam, Travis, and Williamson counties. District 7 DEC Mr. Terry Jones K5LGV, made the nomination for the position. Terry had served the dual roles of EC for Williamson and DEC 7. Section Manager Mr. Stuart Wolfe KF5NIX, approved the appointment.

Michael Moody is an accomplished Public Safety Technology Manager with over 20 years of extensive experience in the emergency services sector. His career is marked by a steadfast commitment to enhancing public safety through the innovative use of technology and volunteer service. Michael's profound understanding of emergency management frameworks and his strategic approach to integrating technology solutions have significantly improved response times and operational efficiency within the organizations he has served.

Michael began his journey in the Civil Air Patrol, developing a solid foundation of skills and knowledge critical to managing high-pressure situations and complex systems. He gained hands-on experience with deployments to Katrina, Rita, Ike, Harvey, and many local disasters, and having more than 400 search and rescue finds. His hands-on experience in emergency operations has equipped him with invaluable insights into the challenges faced by public safety organizations.

As a Public Safety Technology Manager, Michael oversees the deployment and management of cutting-edge technologies that support emergency response teams. He has successfully led numerous projects to modernize systems and improve communication among various agencies. His ability to foster collaboration across departments has resulted in enhanced interoperability.

Michael's contributions to emergency services have not gone unnoticed; he has received several accolades throughout his tenure for his innovative initiatives and leadership in emergency services. Including the Distinguished Service Award from Williamson County Emergency Communications, the Meritorious Service Award, 9 Commander Commendations, 4 Disaster Relief Awards, and State and Region Communicator of the Year from Civil Air Patrol, among others. He is widely recognized as a thought leader in the field, regularly invited to speak on panels and contribute articles to industry publications. His passion for public safety is matched only by his desire to mentor the next generation of professionals. This is exemplified by Michael's developing, teaching, and commanding Emergency Communications Academies nationwide, including the first National Communication Academy.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Michael is an avid amateur radio operator, finding joy and fulfillment in the challenges, camaraderie, and public service that the hobby brings. He has been licensed since 2015 and holds an Amateur Extra license. As an amateur radio operator, Michael has been an active member of ARES, including years of service as the Williamson County Deputy Emergency Coordinator and an active member on the Board of Directors. Additionally, Michael is an active member of the Civil Air Patrol,

This appointment was effective October 10, 2024.

Jeffery A Walter – KE5FGA

ARRL STX SEC