UPDATE: Rowan County Emergency Services has officially promoted Allyson Summitt to the pivotal role of deputy chief as of October 25, 2023. This announcement marks a significant advancement in her more than 20 years of dedicated service in emergency response and public safety.
Summitt, who has played a crucial role in enhancing the county’s preparedness for complex emergencies, will now oversee the coordination of essential services, including EMS, Fire, and 9-1-1 Communications. Her promotion is expected to fortify the community’s response capabilities to both natural disasters and intricate public safety incidents.
In her prior positions, Summitt has focused on inter-agency collaboration, believing that effective management of large-scale incidents hinges on seamless communication and coordination among various departments, including fire, law enforcement, and emergency management. Her extensive background began in 2004 in Catawba County, where she discovered her passion for serving communities during emergencies.
Throughout her career, Summitt has been actively involved in initiatives to enhance readiness for critical situations, such as active violence incidents and hazardous materials emergencies. She has also contributed to major responses across North Carolina, including during Hurricane Helene and the 2025 North Carolina wildfires. Her experience on the State Incident Management Team has solidified her expertise in operational planning and command during emergencies.
As deputy chief, Summitt will lead the county’s emergency management program, ensuring compliance with state and federal standards and overseeing the Rowan County Rescue Squad’s administrative functions. Her leadership is expected to significantly strengthen the county’s ability to manage complex, multi-agency incidents.
Emergency Services Chief TJ Brown expressed confidence in Summitt’s capabilities, stating,
“With Summitt stepping into the deputy chief role, Emergency Services continues to strengthen its leadership team and commitment to preparedness.”
This move is anticipated to enhance the community’s resilience against both natural disasters and complex public safety challenges.
Summitt holds a master of public administration in emergency services management and a bachelor of science in fire administration, complemented by numerous certifications in emergency management and public information operations.
Living in Rowan County with her husband, Greg, and their five-year-old son, Summitt attributes her successful career to the unwavering support of her family. The community can look forward to her leadership in ensuring public safety and emergency preparedness in the years to come.
Stay tuned for further updates on this critical development in Rowan County Emergency Services.
