Jay Shields
Estes Park,CO
Summary
Law enforcement executive with 27+ years of experience leading federal programs in public safety, community engagement, and emergency services. Proven track record in fostering agency collaboration, overseeing volunteers, establishing nonprofit partnerships, and implementing restorative justice approaches. Proficient in grant management, public outreach, and program development focused on trust, accountability, and ethical leadership.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Chief Ranger (LE, Fire, EMS, SAR)
Rocky Mountain National Park, DOI - NPS
Estes Park, CO
03.2020 - 12.2024
- Executive leader for multidisciplinary programs including law enforcement, emergency services, and visitor management.
- Co-created and launched the NPS Mental Health Initiative for national emergency service providers.
- Directed outreach and relationship-building with communities, nonprofits, and interagency stakeholders.
- Partnered with educational institutions on recruitment and mentorship programs.
- Oversaw $4.6 million budget, strategic goals, and the design of a consolidated emergency operations center.
- Led internal evaluations to identify sustainable, inclusive practices.
Chief Ranger (LE, Fire, EMS, SAR)
Olympic National Park, DOI - NPS
Port Angeles, WA
01.2015 - 03.2020
- Supervised large interdepartmental staff of 150 and coordinated legal oversight for law enforcement operations.
- Collaborated with 7 federal and state and 9 tribal agencies, addressing community concerns and mutual aid.
- Managed high-profile events and emergency incidents requiring diplomacy, public trust, and program coordination.
District Ranger
Yosemite National Park, DOI - NPS
Groveland, CA
03.2010 - 01.2015
- Core member of Special Response Team (SRT) of 10 operators, skilled in high-risk mediation and conflict resolution. Served as Operator, PMO and team medic
- Facilitated community-based programs and initiatives addressing criminal justice issues in underserved populations.
- Led LE, wildland fire, SAR, and EMS programs with emphasis on collaborative partnerships.
Education
B.S. - Wildlife Biology
University of Tennessee
Martin, TN05-1997
Skills
- Restorative Justice Philosophy & Facilitation
- Volunteer recruitment and training
- Nonprofit Board Leadership & Public Education
- Budget management and reporting
- Stakeholder engagement and collaboration
- Conflict Resolution & Mediation
- Strategic planning
- Mental health advocacy
- Effective communication with stakeholders
Accomplishments
Successful retirement of emergency services, law enforcement and supervision after 27 years in the federal system.
Successful integration of national and local mental health advocacy and representation for first responders.
successful writing and execution of national Tactical EMS policies and procedures for the agency
Certification
- Criminal Justice/Federal Law Enforcement Certification – FLETC, GA
- Public Land Management Law Enforcement – Santa Rosa Junior College
- Restorative Justice Facilitator Certification – Planned (within 6 months)
- Certified Mediator – In Progress
Affiliations
- International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)
- National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA)
- Fraternal Order of Police – NPS (FOP)
Timeline
Chief Ranger (LE, Fire, EMS, SAR)
Rocky Mountain National Park, DOI - NPS
03.2020 - 12.2024
Chief Ranger (LE, Fire, EMS, SAR)
Olympic National Park, DOI - NPS
01.2015 - 03.2020
District Ranger
Yosemite National Park, DOI - NPS
03.2010 - 01.2015
B.S. - Wildlife Biology
University of Tennessee