A Lifetime of Service to Smyth County

Bradley A. Powers is a lifelong resident of Smyth County, Virginia, and has dedicated much of his life to serving the community he proudly calls home. From emergency services and education to business ownership, economic development, and public office, Bradley's career has been built around a simple belief: making our community better starts with being willing to serve.

That commitment began during his high school years, when he became involved in student advocacy and traveled throughout Virginia participating in discussions concerning education, healthcare, and government.

A Foundation in Public Service

While attending college, Bradley began volunteering with the Adwolfe Fire Department before becoming an Emergency Medical Technician with the Marion Life Saving Crew. Following the merger that created Marion Fire-EMS, he served as EMS Lieutenant and later as EMS Education Coordinator.

Bradley continued his education to become a Paramedic and EMS Educator, eventually coordinating educational programs associated with organizations including the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Safety and Health Institute.

In 2016, Bradley organized one of the region's largest emergency medical education events, bringing together EMS providers, nurses, physicians, and an internationally recognized educator to advance cardiac care education in Southwest Virginia. In 2017, he was appointed as a Virginia Affiliate Faculty member for an international pediatric emergency education program.

These experiences helped shape Bradley's approach to leadership, emphasizing accountability, sound decision-making, teamwork, and serving people during their times of greatest need.

Building a Business and Creating Opportunities

Following an injury sustained while working as a paramedic, Bradley transitioned into entrepreneurship, establishing a graphic design and apparel business from his home.

What began as a small basement operation grew into a business shipping products nationwide and providing research and development services to international manufacturers. His work included product design and development, consulting, and appearances on nationally televised automotive programs, including Motorhead Garage and Performance TV, to represent manufacturers.

Throughout his years in business, Bradley remained committed to giving back to Smyth County. His company supported local nonprofit organizations, recognized student-athletes, and helped organize appreciation events for military personnel.

In 2021 and 2022, Bradley began selling portions of the business before transitioning into consulting services. His professional experience later expanded into data analytics for a global consulting organization, where he evaluated performance metrics, identified trends, and developed data-driven solutions.

His background in business ownership and data analysis would later become valuable assets in modernizing the Commissioner of the Revenue's Office.

Supporting Economic Development and Education

In 2019, Bradley was appointed to the Smyth-Washington Industrial Facilities Authority Board of Directors, representing Smyth County as an at-large member.

During his service, he advocated for responsible economic development and the interests of Smyth County taxpayers. As the authority completed its responsibilities, Bradley supported its dissolution and voted to return more than $272,000 to Smyth County while preserving the existing shared revenue agreement.

Bradley has also served his community through education, working as a substitute teacher for Smyth County Public Schools, including a long-term assignment teaching science at Chilhowie High School.

His volunteer activities have included broadcasting high school athletics, assisting local organizations, and supporting community events throughout the county.

Serving as Commissioner of the Revenue

On January 1, 2024, Bradley began serving as Smyth County's Commissioner of the Revenue.

He entered office with a commitment to fair and accurate assessments, improved taxpayer services, responsible administration, and modernizing outdated government systems.

Since taking office, Bradley and his staff have undertaken significant initiatives to improve the operations of the office and the services provided to Smyth County citizens.

These efforts have included correcting longstanding assessment errors, identifying previously unreported taxable property, improving the accuracy of vehicle assessments, and ensuring proper tax apportionment for local businesses.

His administration has also overseen the transition from a legacy real estate assessment system to modern technology, restored office accreditation, and expanded the use of data analysis to improve efficiency and accountability.

Recognizing that government services should be accessible to the people they serve, Bradley has emphasized public education and community outreach. His office has organized high-mileage vehicle assessment events, provided educational assistance to local businesses, and helped citizens navigate tax relief programs.

Under his leadership, the office has also received statewide recognition for its participation in Commissioners & Cans, a charitable initiative supporting local food banks and families facing food insecurity.

Bradley believes the accomplishments of the office are a reflection of the dedication of its employees and the partnerships developed with citizens, businesses, and community organizations.

Continuing a Commitment to Smyth County

For Bradley, public service has never been limited to holding an elected position. It is a responsibility that has guided him throughout his life, whether responding to an emergency, teaching students, operating a business, volunteering in the community, or serving taxpayers.

As Commissioner of the Revenue, he remains committed to fair and consistent administration, modern and efficient services, fiscal responsibility, and ensuring that every citizen is treated with respect.

Bradley continues to believe that meaningful progress comes from listening, working together, and remaining accountable to the people who place their trust in public officials.

“Service to Community by Working Together” is more than a guiding statement. It represents a lifelong commitment to the people of Smyth County.