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Mel Coulter selected as ITD's new emergency program supervisor

Chief Deputy Scott Stokes this week announced the selection of Mel Coulter as ITD's new emergency program supervisor, effective Monday (Jan. 6). Coulter replaces Bryan Smith who recently retired.

"Mel has an extensive background and a longtime interest in emergency management. I am confident he will advance our efforts to make ITD's program a national leader," Stokes said.

Coulter joined ITD's Office of Communications staff in 2002 and has been primarily responsible for weekly publication of the department's internal newsletter, the Transporter. He helped guide the publication's transition from a printed product to an award-winning online version.

He also served as the news media contact for districts 2 and 5, processing daily publication of news clippings related to transportation and special writing assignments.

"They say when you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life," Coulter said. "I have a passion for emergency response and look forward the challenges of this new position. "

ITD's emergency program already is very sound fundamentally and is considered by many agencies to be a model, he added.

"Mel will bring new energy to increase our momentum and engage more of ITD in our emergency readiness," Stokes said.

Coulter will manage ITD's innovative emergency program council, leverage the experience and knowledge of its duty officers and will look for opportunities to make the program more visible statewide, as well as nationally. He also will continue the department's strong relationship with other emergency agencies.

He will continue to serve as a resource to the Office of Communications temporarily and will work closely with acting manager Mollie McCarty.

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