THOMASVILLE, GA—Thomasville Fire/Rescue (TFR) Chief Chris Bowman announced his retirement Tuesday after serving close to four decades in fire service.
The last six years of his 39-year career has been in the Thomasville community. He became Thomasville fire chief in 2013.
Bowman said he is honored to have served Thomasville residents.
“I'm especially proud to have worked alongside some of the most dedicated men and women in the fire service here, which has made my decision to retire bittersweet," he said. "Together, we've made significant strides in our local fire protection services and, while I'm proud of the work we've done together, I'm excited to see how this department grows in the future.”
Thomasville City Manager Alan Carson said Bowman's impact on TFR has been significant.
“Chris has laid a positive foundation for our local fire department in many areas, including strategic planning and peer mentoring," Carson said. "Under his direction, TFR has achieved many distinctions, including the achievement of National Fire Protection Association certification of all staff members.”
Carson said Bowman has had a tremendous impact on the personal growth and development of his staff.
Bowman came to Thomasville from the Greensboro, NC, fire department where he served as assistant chief of the Strategic Planning Division. While with Greensboro, Bowman was involved in the department's strategic planning initiatives, as well as other areas, including performance and accountability, ISO classification and accreditation. He brought 33 years of experience in fire protection, technical rescue, incident command, training, planning and emergency services to Thomasville.
While with TFR, Bowman has led the department to achieving the status of a certified "Blue Card" incident command center and simulation lab by the National Incident Command Center, the only one of its kind in Georgia. He also has worked with TFR staff to incorporate many new initiatives, including the establishment of a tactical ropes rescue team, officer training and education programs and the TFR honor guard.
Assistant Chief Tim Connell said Bowman encouraged continuing academic education and training for employees, which benefits not only TFR employees, but the community, as well.
"He's been a tremendous asset to this department. He's been a great leader," Connell said.
Mark Sealy, TFR deputy chief and chief medical officer, said Bowman moved TFR into national certification standards.
"He also brought TFR into 100 percent compliance with national and state firefighter certification," Sealy said.
The city manager will name an interim chief near when Bowman's retirement is effective on Dec. 31.
"We do plan to open the job up and hope everyone who is qualified will apply," Carson said.
Bowman and his wife, Tricia, will move to North Carolina, where they have family.
“Thomasville has become our home over the last six years, and we are appreciative to have been welcomed by this community,” Bowman said. “Although we will be moving back to North Carolina, we will leave a big piece of our hearts in Thomasville.”
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