Matt Irwin Promoted to Sedalia Fire Chief

The City of Sedalia announced the promotion of Deputy Fire Chief (and interim chief) Matthew Irwin to Fire Chief on Tuesday morning

"Chief Irwin has been an integral part of the fire department for over 24 years, steadily promoting up through the ranks holding each position within the department. Serving quite capably as Deputy Fire Chief for the last three years made him a logical choice to fill in as Interim Fire Chief upon Chief Harrell's retirement in August of this year. And now, his demonstrated abilities in this capacity makes the decision to promote him to Fire Chief an easy one.

"Chief Irwin holds an Associate's Degree in Fire Science Technology, as well as, numerous other applicable certificates and training. He has also shown his leadership throughout the community through participating in many projects and events.

"Serving in an interim capacity, Irwin has laid out a solid strategy for his plans to move an already solid department forward. It seems only fitting with October being fire prevention month that we can congratulate him this month in taking the next step in his career with the Sedalia Fire Department. We are excited to work with Chief Irwin in this new capacity," according to a press release issued at 10 a.m. Tuesday.

The command staff at the SFD according to the City of Sedalia's website is now as follows: Ken Schlesselman, Battalion Chief; Barry White, Battalion Chief;  Daniel Shaw, Administrative Captain;  Mitch Friedly, Captain; Kyle Gilmore, Captain; Donald Sattler, Captain; Greg Smith, Captain; and Jamie Volk, Inspector.

In the top photo: Sedalia Fire Chief Mat Irwin, right, is pictured with Administrative Captain Daniel Shaw at a recent City Council Meeting.