Interim Fire Chief Michael Thomas joined the Charlottesville Fire Department in 2022 with 30-plus years of fire service. He is responsible for the oversight of Community Risk Reduction. This includes accreditation, the Fire Marshal's Office, technology, planning and data analysis, FOIA, and public information. Chief Thomas has served in many roles throughout his career, including Fire Marshal’s Office, Operations Battalion Chief, and Special teams Captain. Chief Thomas received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and an Associate Degree in Fire Science.