The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) today announced personnel changes for TDEM Region 1 (Northwest Texas) and the agency’s Preparedness Division.
“These personnel changes represent our continuing need to support all aspects of the disaster and emergency services discipline,” said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. “Their extensive emergency management experience will drive our agency’s successes before, during, and after disasters. We’re excited to have their expertise and commitment to public service, and look forward to their contributions in shaping how communities deliver preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation support to Texans across our state.”
Randy Meshell has joined TDEM as Division Chief of Preparedness, where he will lead statewide programs that enhance Texas’ ability to support local jurisdictions with emergency management planning efforts.
Before joining TDEM, Meshell most recently served as the Preparedness Division Director for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 6, where he oversaw security, intelligence, firefighting, continuity of operations, training, exercise, grants management, and preparedness programs for five states, 68 federally recognized Tribal Nations, and hundreds of local jurisdictions serving more than 42 million people.
Brian Veach has been appointed TDEM Region 1 (Northwest Texas) Section Chief of Recovery and Mitigation. Region 1 encompasses 60 counties in Northwest Texas and the Texas Panhandle, stretching from the Southern Oklahoma border to the Big Country. The region includes a mix of rural communities, growing suburbs, and critical infrastructure vital to the state’s economy and emergency response operations.
Before joining TDEM, Veach most recently led the Emergency Service's Dispatch Center for the Pantex Fire Department, which is located near Amarillo. He also has extensive experience supporting drills, training, exercises, and continuity of operations programs. With over 2 decades of experience between emergency management and military service, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to public service.
Additionally, Phillip Thomas has been promoted to District Chief for Disaster District 1 — Amarillo. District 1 is located in TDEM Region 1 and encompasses 26 counties. Thomas had most recently served as the County Liaison Officer for Randall County and joined TDEM in 2024. Thomas has been instrumental in enhancing preparedness and coordination efforts in the Texas Panhandle and will play a significant role in assisting with delivery of emergency management programs in the disaster district.
Learn more about TDEM Region 1 here. Learn more about TDEM’s Preparedness Division here.
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