Wichita Fire Department (WFD) Chief Tammy Snow announced today the promotions of both Joe Bickel and Stuart V. Bevis to Deputy Fire Chief.
Bickel, who joined the department in 1975, was appointed Deputy Chief of Emergency Operations. He had served as Acting Deputy Fire Chief since July 2017. Bickel has served as a WFD lieutenant, captain, and battalion chief. As the Deputy Chief for Emergency Operations, Bickel will be responsible for the day-to-day direction of emergency services including medical emergencies, fires, hazardous materials and rescue team operations. His direction will be critical to the 12 battalion chiefs and 22 City fire stations.
"Joe's 43 years of fire service experience provides invaluable and irreplaceable institutional knowledge as a dedicated public safety servant," Snow said.
Bevis, who joined the department in 1987, was appointed Fire Marshal, a Deputy Chief post. He had served as Acting Fire Marshal since October 2016. He is widely recognized for his expertise in fire investigation and code interpretation. He is a graduate of Western Illinois University with a Bachelor's Degree in Fire Prevention Technology and has previously been awarded the Kansas Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators, Fire Investigator of the Year honors.
Bevis will direct day-to-day operations of the Fire Prevention Division. This includes management and oversight of Code Administration, Fire Investigation and Public Fire/Life Safety Education sections of the department. He will also oversee the SWAT Medic program and Security Advisory Team.
"His expertise will enhance the services and safety of the community," Snow said.
WFD has three Deputy Chief positions. The third is Brad Crisp, the Deputy Fire Chief for Support Services.
Stuart V. Bevis
Deputy Fire Chief, Fire Prevention
Joe Bickel
Deputy Fire Chief, Emergency Operations
