Grand Ridge native now leads Governor’s security detail

By Shelia Mader

Chad Dickson, a Grand Ridge native and 2001 Sneads High School graduate, spoke to the Rotary Club of Marianna this week, offering insight into his high-level role as the head of Governor Ron DeSantis’ security detail. Dickson, who serves as Chief of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s (FDLE) Protective Services Division, shared his journey from rural Jackson County to the front lines of protecting the state’s top officials.

“I actually work for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement over our Protective Services Division,” Dickson explained. “We’re responsible for protection of the Governor and First Family, as well as coordinating security for visiting dignitaries.”

That often includes out-of-state governors, high-ranking officials, and even former President Donald Trump when he is in Florida. “We work closely with the Secret Service when needed. We’re statewide, and this time of year we may coordinate with two or three visiting delegations each week, especially with how popular Florida is for meetings, the beaches, and Disney.”

Dickson recently accompanied Governor DeSantis on a high-profile trip to Paris for the annual air show. “I went to help coordinate security,” he said. “We do a lot of travel, but we’ve been able to rotate assignments now so it’s more manageable.”

With over 20 years in law enforcement and eight in protective services, Dickson has built a steady career within FDLE. He previously served during Governor Rick Scott’s first term, later working in criminal investigations in both Marianna and Tallahassee. He was eventually promoted under the DeSantis administration to chief of the protective detail.

Despite his demanding job, Dickson remains grounded in his hometown roots. He and his wife, Amber Wilson Dickson, live in Grand Ridge with their two sons, Cole, age nine, and Caleb, age seven. “I lived in Tallahassee for a while, but when we had children, we moved back,” he said. “They give me a car, so I commute.”

Dickson is a proud alumnus of Chipola College and Florida A&M University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. He’s currently pursuing a master’s degree in emergency management through the University of Central Florida, with the state covering the cost.

“It was a scholarship program back then for students transferring from rural colleges like Chipola,” Dickson recalled of his early educational path. “Now the state is helping with my graduate studies, and I’m grateful.”

From rural beginnings to one of the most trusted roles in state government, Chad Dickson’s journey serves as an inspiring example of public service, commitment, and staying true to one’s roots.