Bill Smith

Bill Smith is a career employee of the Department of Natural Resources and he is currently serving as Northern Region Land Leader. He is responsible for the day-to-day operation of Land Division programs in the 18-county area of Northern Wisconsin. He manages programs to provide a healthy environment, rich natural resources and a full range of outdoor recreational opportunities for our citizens and guests. Bill began state service in 1978 after six years of active duty as a helicopter rescue pilot in the U.S. Air Force. His career with the Department started at Spooner as an environmental engineer and program supervisor, moved to deputy district director at Rhinelander (l985), regional director at Spooner (l990) and Deputy Secretary in Madison (2003–2007). As Deputy Secretary, Bill was responsible for the daily operations of the Department of Natural Resources and a staff of 2,700 resource professionals. Bill is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and the University of Illinois with a master’s degree in civil/environmental engineering. He has served in local government positions, supported a variety of youth activities and is proud to be an Air Force veteran with 23 years of service in active and reserve duty.