Former D.C. Fire and EMS spokesman Pete Piringer, known for years as “PIO Pete” for his quick and professional response to reporters’ questions, is settling into a new job. What are you doing now? I am currently the Director of Communications in the Office of the Secretary of the District of Columbia, Secretary Cynthia Brock-Smith. This is within the Executive Office of the Mayor. I have an office on the 4th floor at the Wilson Building.
How is it different than the public information work? The work differences are night and day. Although I am dealing with a different kind of public information, I spend most of my time now in the office, and while the work is exciting and a great opportunity, the crisis management, 24 hour on-call experience does not exist with this position.
What do you like best about the new job? I am surrounded by opportunities to meet new people, get involved with the diplomatic community while at the same time working on an overall communications plan for the Office of the Secretary. From day one in this job, I have been welcomed as a member of a cohesive team of dedicated city employees. My colleagues here are amazing — talented, intelligent, enthusiastic, and visionary. Not to mention, my office is five minutes from home.
Do you miss being the PIO? The Fire/EMS service is in my blood and PIO duties have been my passion. I do miss my PIO role, but I have spent my public service career embracing new opportunities and welcoming whatever has come my way as a public servant. Right now, I want to give the public, Mayor Vincent Gray, Secretary Brock-Smith and the Office of the Secretary the best that I have to offer. ?- Scott McCabe
