The Farmington Valley Health District has a team of dedicated Environmental Health Professionals. Jeremy Shields is one of these individuals. His day-to-day responsibilities cover a wide range of public health duties, from ensuring food safety in local restaurants to inspecting public pools, daycares, salons, and housing conditions. This year, he earned his certification from the Connecticut Department of Public Health to perform inspections independently and interpret and enforce the food code.
Jeremy has a Bachelor of Science and Masters of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Texas at San Antonio. His 15-year background as a professional chef brings a unique perspective to his work as well. “I like to say that I speak fluent ‘Kitchen,’” Jeremy says. His culinary experience helps him connect with restaurant workers and operators, making food safety education both approachable and effective. “I feel a great sense of accomplishment when I can work with an operator to get them to ‘buy in’ to a better, safer way of doing things,” he adds. His philosophy is simple yet impactful: “Be polite but firm and honest, but not brutal.”
Outside of work, Jeremy finds joy in family, coaching, and community. He and his twin boys, Liam and Andrew — juniors at Avon High School and Northwest High School — enjoy spending time together, often alongside Jeremy’s two adorable puppies, Koba and Gina. A baseball coach for 13–14-year-olds in Avon, Jeremy is deeply rooted in his community and takes pride in the genuine care and camaraderie that define the Farmington Valley.
“I enjoy finding joy in life and laughing,” Jeremy says. “Laughing is my favorite.” His optimism and community spirit are as strong as his commitment to public health, making him not just a dedicated environmental health professional, but also a valued neighbor and friend in The Farmington Valley Health District.