Pete Gaynor Confirmed to Lead FEMA

On January 14, 2020, the Senate voted to confirm Pete Gaynor to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in an 81-8 vote. Gaynor has served as FEMA's acting administrator since March 9, 2019 and prior to that, the Agency's deputy administrator.

Before joining FEMA, Gaynor was appointed director of Rhode Island's Emergency Management Agency by Governor Gina Raimondo in January 2015. During his tenure in Rhode Island, Gaynor advised the governor on emergency management policy and served as the principal liaison between FEMA and local emergency management offices through the state. Gaynor also has an extensive military background and served 26 years as an enlisted Marine and Infantry Officer in the United States Marine Corps.

Gaynor holds a bachelor's degree in history from Rhode Island College and a master's degree in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College in Newport, RI. He is also a graduate of the Center for Homeland Defense and Security's Executive Leaders Program.

The confirmation of Peter Gaynor comes at a critical time. With his vision for a strong and interconnected emergency management framework, which is essential to effective disaster mitigation, the Code Council is grateful to have him leading the Agency. As efforts that are foremost in the work of our association, the Code Council will continue to advocate for FEMA's focus on pre-disaster mitigation, training and its work towards establishing resilient communities nationwide.

The Code Council congratulates Mr. Gaynor in his new appointment, and we look forward to continuing to work with FEMA, our members and our partners to aid in efforts to improve building safety and resilience.

To learn more about Peter Gaynor, click here.