Accomplished Under 40 – Scott O’Connell

Regional Disaster Officer – American Red Cross

Scott O’Connell has built a career in emergency management by consistently answering the call when disasters strike. As regional disaster officer for the American Red Cross, O’Connell manages operations across a 240,000-square-mile territory covering Idaho, Montana and eastern Oregon, where he has helped coordinate responses to catastrophic events.

His career path is immersed in public service. He started as a firefighter with the U.S. Air Force before working as a 911 dispatcher and advancing through roles within the Red Cross. This background equipped him with crucial skills needed for emergency management like decision-making abilities, adaptability and coordination under pressure.

“Scott is the person who answers the call at 3 a.m., whether it’s a family displaced by a home fire, a community in crisis, or a volunteer needing guidance in the midst of an emergency,” said Jeremy Maxand, executive director of Linc.

Between July 2024 and January 2025 alone, O’Connell’s team responded to 225 home fires, ensuring families had resources for recovery.

O’Connell’s approach to data-driven decision making has resulted in significant organizational improvements. He designed a National Lives Saved Notification system and established a volunteer data team that automates processes. Under his leadership, volunteer engagement increased from 60% to 100% within two years.

As president of Idaho Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), O’Connell has united nonprofits, government agencies and community partners to enhance disaster relief coordination statewide. His volunteer service includes roles on multiple advisory boards, highlighting his commitment to leadership development.

“I believe leadership is not a one-size-fits-all approach. I strive to be adaptable, leveraging different leadership strategies to meet the needs of each unique circumstance,” O’Connell said. “My mission is to empower individuals with the tools and knowledge to help themselves, fostering a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility.”

His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, a Certificate in Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and ongoing pursuit of a Master’s in Emergency Services Administration.

“Scott O’Connell embodies the qualities that the Idaho Business Review seeks to honor with the [Accomplished Under 40] award,” said Erin McCann, Division Disaster Director for the American Red Cross. “His innovative approach to community service and proven leadership make him a standout candidate among his peers.”

O’Connell isn’t looking to slow down anytime soon. He has a quest to keep improving.

“A guiding principle in my work is continuous improvement,” he said. “I frequently ask my team, ‘Are we intentionally doing the right thing in the most efficient and effective way possible?’ If the answer is no, then we challenge ourselves to identify and implement the necessary changes.”