Tina Adams
Tina Adams (She/Her) is the Fire Administration & Communications Manager and Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Town of Longboat Key, where she has dedicated more than 26 years of service to public safety and community communication. In her current role, she leads fire administration operations, oversees strategic communications, and serves as a trusted spokesperson for the Town’s Public Safety Complex. Her expertise spans public information management, emergency services coordination, and cross-agency collaboration, ensuring accurate, timely, and community-focused communication during both routine operations and critical incidents.
Tina’s career with Longboat Key began in 1999, first serving with the Police Department before transitioning to Fire Rescue in 2016. Over the years, she has held roles including Communications Supervisor, Emergency Service Specialist, and PIO—demonstrating unwavering commitment, leadership, and a deep understanding of the public safety landscape. Prior to joining the Town, she served as a Dispatcher/TO with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. Tina’s educational background includes studies in Business Administration, Management, and Operations at the State College of Florida–Manatee–Sarasota, along with EMT certification from Sarasota County Technical Institute. She has also pursued extensive professional development through FEMA and the American College of Surgeons, among other organizations.
Known for her professionalism, reliability, and passion for service, Tina brings exceptional communication skills and operational insight to every facet of her work. She plays a key role in supporting public education, strengthening departmental outreach, and enhancing community trust. Her long-standing dedication to the Town of Longboat Key and its residents underscores her commitment to public safety excellence and meaningful community engagement.
• American College of Surgeons / Committee on Trauma
• Social Media in Emergency Management
• State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota
• Sarasota County Technical Institute
• Florida League of Cities
• National Information Officers Association
• FCIC/NCIC, TAC, Regional Chair Board Member
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the people who believed in me early on and to the experiences that shaped my commitment to public safety. Starting as a dispatcher in 1997 opened the door to roles that taught me the value of clear communication, compassion, and service in moments that matter most. Over the years, whether serving in communications, supporting fire operations, or now leading our communications team and serving as PIO, I’ve grown by staying adaptable, learning continuously, and keeping the community at the center of everything I do. My success is rooted in strong relationships, a willingness to serve wherever I’m needed, and a deep appreciation for the trust our residents place in us every day.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to find the part of the work that truly inspires you and let it guide your growth. Public safety and communications can be demanding, but when you connect to your purpose, the long days become meaningful. Stay curious, stay teachable, and welcome roles that challenge you—those moments will shape your confidence and your career. Above all, remember that every interaction matters. Lead with respect, communicate with clarity, and never lose sight of the people you’re here to serve.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in our field right now is recruitment and staffing, especially as the needs of public safety continue to evolve. Departments are navigating a post-COVID landscape where expectations for remote or flexible work don’t always align with the hands-on, in-person nature of emergency services and administrative support roles. At the same time, these challenges create opportunities—new ways to modernize processes, strengthen training, and attract talent that brings fresh perspectives and adaptability. Our ability to meet these changes with clarity, collaboration, and innovation will shape the future of our profession.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me are service, integrity, and teamwork. I strive to show up fully and with compassion, communicate clearly and transparently, and empower my team to succeed. Above all, I believe that accountability and honesty in every action build the trust that is essential in public safety and in life.