About

The Heartbeat of Hillsborough County

The legacy of the Smith family is deeply woven into the fabric of Hillsborough County. It was here that Rico watched the tireless commitment of his grandparents, as they toiled day after day to build a life and create opportunities for the generations to come. His parents, emblematic of hard work and community spirit, passed down these values to Rico. This isn’t just any county to Rico; it’s home, the soil where his family’s dreams germinated and flourished.

A Soldier’s Promise

Second Lieutenant Ronrico K. Smith isn’t just any serviceman. He holds a crucial role as a Finance Officer at the 927th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill AFB. Before this, as the NCOIC of Biomedical Equipment, he ensured the readiness of 2,800 medical devices, equating to a staggering $19 million in assets. Rico’s commitment to the United States Air Force since 2016 isn’t just about serving his country but is also a testament to his dedication to continuous self-improvement.

A Commitment to Education

Rico’s journey of self-improvement was further bolstered by his academic pursuits. At Trident University International, CA, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, building upon his Associate of Science degree from CCAF Maxwell AFB and Biomedical Technician training at Fort Sam Houston. These educational accomplishments, along with his leadership training at MacDill AFB, provided a strong foundation for his multifaceted career.

Balancing Service with Corporate Excellence

Beyond his reserve duties, Rico’s drive is evident. As a healthcare executive, he
champions technological innovations in the healthcare industry. His tenure with StemRad Inc saw him at the forefront of medical vertical business development, traveling worldwide for conferences and sales events.

A Pillar of the Community

Rico’s involvement in the community is extensive. As a Congressional Veteran Advisor for U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis and a member of the Hospital Authority Board for Hillsborough County, his contributions are unmistakable. He continues to give back, notably as a contributor to the Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay Board of Directors and by mentoring in local veteran organizations on real estate investing and retirement planning.

A Hillsborough Legacy

Rico represents more than just a resident of Hillsborough County; he is its heartbeat, its legacy. In every endeavor, whether in the Air Force, academia, the corporate sphere, or his community, Rico carries forward the values instilled by his family. He is a beacon of hope and commitment, ensuring the prosperity of Hillsborough County for future generations.

Ronrico “Rico” Smith’s journey is one of dedicated service and leadership, deeply rooted in Tampa. His evolution from a local to a public servant underscores a commitment to advancing his community – a reflection of the ethos instilled in him by his family’s legacy. This narrative highlights not just personal accomplishments but a communal ethos of support and progress that defines Tampa.

Rico’s early life was marked by the values of hard work and community engagement, taught by his family. These principles shaped his approach to life, guiding him through roles that demanded integrity and compassion. His military service, beginning in 2016 and leading to a commission as a Second Lieutenant in 2022, exemplifies his commitment to national and community service. Serving as a Finance Officer at the 927th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill AFB, and previously as a Biomedical Technician, Rico has demonstrated excellence and dedication to duty, underscored by receiving the John L. Levitow Award.

Beyond his military career, Rico’s academic endeavors, including earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Trident University International, have provided a strong foundation for a diverse career path. His leadership training and educational background have equipped him with a versatile skill set.

In the professional sphere, Rico has made significant contributions as a healthcare executive, particularly at StemRad, where he led efforts in medical business development. His involvement in the community is extensive, serving as a Congressional Veteran Advisor for U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis and as a member of the Hospital Authority Board for Hillsborough County. His contributions are further highlighted by his role as a contributor to the Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay Board of Directors and through mentoring in local veteran organizations on real estate investing and retirement planning. These activities showcase his commitment to healthcare innovation and community service.

Rico’s deep ties to Tampa, his active community involvement, and leadership in various capacities reflect his genuine commitment to his roots. Running for State House District 67, Rico aims to bring effective leadership and meaningful change to Tallahassee, advocating for resilience, progress, and a brighter future for Tampa. His campaign is a promise to leverage his extensive experience and relationships to address the challenges and realize the potential of his community.