CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – A local Charleston County official was appointed Monday to help advise the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Charleston County Emergency Management Director Justin Pierce secured a spot on FEMA's National Advisory Council, which helps with all aspects of emergency management.  The council reports to Administrator Deanne Criswell and is comprised of emergency officials from across the nation, including those from local, state, tribal, and territorial governments. "I am deeply honored to be selected to join FEMA's National Advisory Council," said Pierce. "This opportunity will allow me to collaborate with leaders across the nation to strengthen our collective preparedness and response efforts. I look forward to bringing insights from my career to the table while applying what I learn to enhance the resilience of our community here in Charleston County." Pierce brings more than 20 years of professional experience to the role and has deployed for several presidentially declared disasters. "Justin's appointment to FEMA's National Advisory Council is a well-deserved honor and a testament to his expertise and dedication," said Eric Watson, Charleston County Deputy County Administrator for Public Safety. "We're fortunate to have him leading our Emergency Management Department and are confident that his experience and leadership will benefit countless communities not just in Charleston County but across the nation."