Speakers 2026
Matt VanDrunen, Director, Newton County Indiana EMA
Matthew A. VanDrunen is the Director of the Newton County Emergency Management Agency, where he leads preparedness, response, and recovery initiatives across the county. With over 31 years in the fire service, he brings a broad public safety background, beginning his service with the Lansing IL Fire Department and The Lowell Fire Department IN, where he earned Firefighter I & II certifications, as well as credentials as a Fire Inspector and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). In his role with Newton County EMA, Matthew oversees emergency planning, interagency coordination, and training to enhance community resilience. He is credentialed in the National Incident Management System (NIMS) with completion of ICS 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, and 800, equipping him to operate effectively in complex incident command and multi-agency environments. His career reflects a commitment to advancing public safety through professional training, operational leadership, and collaborative emergency management.