AF officials select new fire chief

  • Published
  • By John Burt
  • Air Force Civil Engineer Center Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) --  The Air Force has a new top firefighter.

Jim Podolske has been named chief of Fire Emergency Services, a division of the Air Force Civil Engineer Center's Readiness Directorate here.

As the Air Force fire chief, Podolske will manage a force of more than 9,200 military and civilian firefighters as well as the programs that provide them with equipment, vehicles and training.

Podolske has more than 37 years of Air Force firefighting experience with 20 years of service at AFCEC and succeeds Donald Warner who held the position for 11 years until his retirement in December 2012.

"Jim brings a lot of strategic-level experience to the job," said Col. Michael Mendoza, the head of AFCEC's Readiness Directorate. "When we talk future strategy for Air Force Fire Emergency Services, we must infuse policy decisions and the fiscal constraints that are happening now, and find the right balance to support our firefighters. Jim understands this and that's why he's such a great fit for this position. You're not going to find a better advocate for FES."

Recently, Podolske managed the Air Force fire vehicle modernization program and spearheaded the development of the P-34 Rapid Intervention Vehicle, the first vehicle in the Air Force's crash response fleet to use new ultra-high pressure firefighting technology.

"Jim has worked tirelessly to transform and modernize our vehicle fleet," Mendoza said. "Our vehicle recapitalization rate is going down. That was a huge goal we were able to accomplish thanks to him."

"I'm looking forward to trying to make a difference," Podolske said. "There is a balance between managing existing requirements and preparing for the future, all while effectively supporting the Air Force mission, the public we serve and ensuring the safety of our Air Force firefighters."

Podolske said the biggest immediate obstacles fire and emergency services face are the impacts of potential government furloughs.

"These are fiscally uncertain times," Podolske said. "My goal is to offer stability by being consistent with my leadership and communication to the field."

Despite these challenges, Podolske said he is humbled and excited about his role in shaping the firefighting career field.

"I look forward to working together with our professional firefighters," Podolske said. "It's a privilege and honor to serve as their chief."