S5 - E41: Erin Stillwagon - PIO - Garden City Fire Department, KS

Summary: In this episode of the PIO Podcast, Robert Tornabene interviews Erin Stillwagon, the Public Information Officer for the Garden City Fire Department. Erin shares her unexpected journey into the role of PIO, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, especially with children, to foster a positive relationship between the fire department and the public. She discusses the strategies used in social media to communicate effectively, without highlighting tragedies, instead focusing on education and outreach. Erin also touches on the significance of crisis communication, the use of technology and AI in her work, and the value of building a supportive network within the PIO community. The conversation concludes with personal insights and rapid-fire questions, highlighting Erin's optimistic outlook on life and her commitment to helping others.

Erin's BIO - Erin Stillwagon is the Public Information Officer for the Garden City Fire Department located in Garden City, Kansas. Erin Stillwagon has always been driven by a deep desire to help others, which is reflected in her work with the Garden City Fire Department. In her role, Erin combines her skills in project management, public relations, and leadership to support the department’s mission and engage with the community. She takes pride in creating meaningful connections, whether coordinating public safety initiatives, crafting effective communications, or collaborating with her team to enhance daily operations.

 A lifelong resident of Garden City, Erin is passionate about giving back to the community that shaped her, and she approaches every task with care, dedication, and a genuine commitment to making a difference. Known for her critical thinking and leadership, Erin has successfully enhanced departmental operations through innovative problem-solving and streamlined processes. Her commitment to excellence and dedication to helping others define her approach to both her career and public service.

 Erin is actively involved with several professional organizations, including the National Information Officers Association (NIOA), Kansas Association of Public Information Officers (KAPIO), and Kansas Women Leading Government. She holds the Advanced Public Information Officer credential from FEMA's Emergency Management Institute and played a pivotal role in bringing the first inaugural 620 Day to life, a celebration that highlights the unique spirit and community of the 620 area code.

 A longtime Kansas State University football fanatic, Erin is equally passionate about her family’s bucket list goal to watch a game at every MLB stadium. True to her personality, she will always choose a dog over a human, reflecting her love for animals and her lighthearted approach to life.

To contact Erin via her LinkedIn