Throughout his career, Sheldon Williams, assistant professor, Emergency Medicine program, has worn many hats. They have all prepared him for his recent appointment as the City of Pittsburgh Director of Public Safety.
Williams’ 18 years in the military trained him first as a combat medic, then an emergency management specialist. During his 13 years with the City of Pittsburgh as a police officer and paramedic, he served on the SWAT and bomb squads and earned certification in fire, hazmat and emergency medical service (EMS).
“I have a first-hand knowledge of different disciplines,” explains Williams. “This cross training allows me to understand the workings of different bureaus and better collaborate with people at all levels in those offices.”
Williams credits his success to the mentors who have guided him throughout his career. He says John Moon, who was one of the original paramedics at the Freedom House Ambulance Service and later assistant chief of Pittsburgh’s EMS, was the force behind him deciding to become a paramedic.
“John saw something in me that I didn’t see,” continues Williams. “He created a pathway for me and now I hope to create similar on ramps to attract others to the field of public safety.”
As the director of public safety, Williams leads teams from city bureaus, including police, fire, emergency medical services and animal care and control. He also oversees offices that handle the city’s bars and restaurants, movies and special events, like the recent NFL draft, group violence interventions and mental and community health. In all, approximately 2,400 city employees fall under his jurisdiction.
“I strive to be a servant leader—to model the behavior I expect out of others,” says Williams.
“I know that my decisions lead to many implications downstream for the people on my team,” he continues. “I would never ask them to do anything that I wouldn’t do myself.”
In spite of his busy schedule, Williams continue to teach classes to students in the Emergency Medicine program, including a course on “Leadership in Health Care.”
“This is the first time that I am teaching students the very thing that I am doing every day in my job with the City of Pittsburgh,” notes Williams.
“Without breeching confidentiality, I can share how I’m creating policies and procedures, building teams and strengthening programs that will benefit the residents of the city. It’s very rewarding. I hope some of my students will use what they’re learning and join me in the field of public service.”
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