AJ Gary, director of the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) and state homeland security adviser, announced Monday he will retire effective Nov. 1. Gary is stepping down after more than seven years in the role and over three decades of public service.
Gary was originally appointed to lead ADEM by former Governor Asa Hutchinson in June 2016 and was reappointed earlier this year by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. During his tenure, he oversaw the state’s response to 49 state and federally declared disasters, ranging from natural events to other emergencies requiring state intervention.
“AJ has been instrumental in helping us deliver assistance to Arkansans when they need it most and stood with me on some of our toughest days,” Gov. Sanders said in a statement. “I’m grateful to AJ for his career in public service and wish him the best as he enters this well-earned next chapter.”
Under Gary’s leadership, the agency also modernized its statewide emergency dashboard, a critical system that allows agencies to track incidents and request assistance during emergencies.
Gary reflected on his years at the agency in a statement, calling the opportunity to lead ADEM “one of the greatest honors” of his career. “Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion set a standard that is recognized across the nation,” he said of the team he led. “As I prepare to retire, I do so with full confidence that the ADEM team will continue to serve Arkansans with the same commitment and excellence they demonstrate every day.”
Before serving at ADEM, Gary spent more than 28 years with the Conway Police Department, where he rose to the rank of chief. He also previously worked as chief security administrator for Air Transport International LLC, a cargo airline.
Gary’s career in public service has been marked by his efforts to ensure Arkansas is prepared to respond effectively to diverse emergencies, prioritizing modernization and teamwork. His departure leaves a legacy of both preparedness and professionalism within the organization.
No announcement has yet been made regarding Gary’s successor as director of ADEM.