Little Rock, Arkansas – AJ Gary, director of the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management and the state’s Homeland Security Advisor, will retire from both positions on November 1 after more than a decade leading the agency.
Gary was first appointed ADEM director by former Governor Asa Hutchinson in June 2016. He was later reappointed to the position by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders on January 10, 2023. His departure will mark the end of a long career in public service that has included work in emergency management, law enforcement and security.
“Serving the state of Arkansas as the Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Advisor has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I am incredibly proud of the ADEM team. Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion set a standard that is recognized across the nation. 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,” Gary stated.
Gary has spent more than 40 years in public service. Before taking on his leadership role at ADEM, he served more than 28 years with the Conway Police Department. He also worked as chief security administrator for Air Transport International LLC, an international FAA Part 121 air carrier, where he was responsible for domestic and international security operations.
His work has extended beyond Arkansas as well. In October 2025, Gary was appointed president of the National Emergency Management Association, a position representing emergency management directors from across the country.
Throughout his career, Gary has also participated in a number of state and national committees. His service has included Arkansas Safe Schools, the Infrastructure Planning Advisory Committee, the Governor’s Cyber Advisory Council and the Arkansas Governor’s Earthquake Advisory Council.
He also served as chair of the Arkansas 911 Board. At the national level, Gary served on the Executive Committee of the National Governors Association Governors Homeland Security Advisors Council and on the Board of Directors of the Central United States Earthquake Consortium.
During his time directing ADEM, Gary worked on several changes aimed at strengthening the state’s emergency management capabilities. The agency expanded its field operations capacity by adding two Area Coordinators, increasing its ability to provide support in different parts of Arkansas.
Gary also supported legislation that doubled funding for the agency. Another major effort involved modernizing WebEOC, the online dashboard used by agencies to report emergencies and request assistance.
Governor Sanders praised Gary’s work and his role during difficult situations for the state.
“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,” said Gov. Sanders. “I’m grateful to AJ for his career in public service and wish him the best as he enters this well-earned next chapter.”
Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar also recognized Gary’s leadership during emergencies and his years of service.
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“In an emergency, we need strong and steady leadership. AJ has always provided that,” said Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar. “AJ has seen Arkansas through challenging times with a clear head and steady hand. We are deeply appreciative of his service to the state and wish him well in his retirement.”
Gary will remain in his roles until November 1. His retirement will conclude more than 40 years of public service, including more than a decade at the helm of Arkansas’ emergency management agency.
