Pasco County Fire Rescue PIO Achieves Major Milestone

PASCO COUNTY, FL — Pasco County Fire Rescue announced that Public Information Officer Corey Dierdorff recently achieved the highest certification from the Federal Emergency Management Agency in the PIO profession — Master Public Information Officer.

Dierdorff graduated from the Emergency Management Institute program earlier this year after completing an intensive, three-course program. The program is made up of a series of classes that prepare PIOs for an expanded role in delivering information and using a strategic, whole-community approach.

“Corey’s experience, combined with his newfound knowledge from the MPIO course, will benefit the Pasco County community as we continue our efforts to keep the public safe and informed,” said Fire Rescue Chief Scott Cassin. “His approach to sharing our news is strengthening our relationships with the community and our media partners, and will bolster those relationships for years to come.”

Dierdorff has extensive experience in the public information realm. He brings more than 25 years of knowledge to Pasco County through his time in television news and spent six years as PIO for two Tampa Bay area fire departments. Dierdorff has served in the joint operations center for several significant events, including natural disasters, the College Football Playoffs in Tampa, Super Bowl LV and the Florida State Fair.

As far back as he can remember, Dierdorff said he wanted to serve his community and help those in need — even volunteering as a firefighter during his news career.

“I’m humbled and honored to be part of this distinct group of dedicated professional public information officers,” Dierdorff said.

Dierdorff is among only 137 people designated as MPIOs across the country.