Knoxville-Knox County EMA Director Receives Bill Worth Award
May 6, 2026
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KNOXVILLE - The Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency is proud to announce that Director Colin Ickes was presented with the Bill Worth Award during the Emergency Management Association of Tennessee (EMAT) Conference held this week in Murfreesboro.
The Bill Worth Award is the highest honor jointly presented by EMAT and the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. Presented annually, the award recognizes an individual in emergency management, at either the state or local level, who embodies selfless dedication in service to their community and the State of Tennessee. Recipients demonstrate exemplary skill, knowledge, integrity, commitment, and sacrifice in the field of emergency management.
Ickes was nominated by Deputy Chief Gary Compton of the Knoxville Fire Department, who praised his leadership and impact across the region.
“Colin represents the very best of our profession,” Compton said. “His impact on training, preparedness, and interagency coordination has strengthened not just our department, but the entire region. He leads with humility, he serves with purpose, and he consistently steps forward when others need support.”
Ickes began his career with the Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency in 2005 and was promoted to Director in 2016. He holds a master’s degree in Fire and Emergency Management Administration, has completed the National Emergency Management Advanced Academy, and maintains numerous credentials in key emergency management functions, including Type 3 Planning Section Chief, HAZMAT Specialist, Paramedic, and Incident Command System Instructor.
This recognition marks a significant milestone for the agency. Ickes is the second Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency leader to receive the Bill Worth Award. Former Deputy Director, Judy Wasik received the award in 2024.
The Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency congratulates Director Ickes on this well- deserved honor and thanks him for his continued service and leadership in strengthening emergency preparedness and response for Knox County and the region.
Knox County Alerts allows community members to receive emergency alerts by opting in. Community members can select what type of alerts they would like to receive and how they would like to receive them. Sign up at knoxcounty.org/alert.
