A 23-year veteran of the St. Paul Fire Department, Henry Thomson is ready for a new challenge as the department's first full-time Deputy Fire Chief.
"I'm pretty excited about it. I'm looking forward to working on some bigger projects with the fire department," Thomson said, last week after the official announcement was made.
One of the main roles of the brand new position is to streamline training between fire departments throughout the County of St. Paul. Another part of the job is being able to replace Fire Chief Trevor Kotowich during any absence.
"There's lots to learn on that side, as far as what he does," Thomson admitted.
A total of 35 people applied for the position, which was created when the County of St. Paul, Town of Elk Point, and Town of St. Paul agreed on its necessity. Thomson has held a Chief Officer position for the last six years with the St. Paul Fire Department.
"I started as a rookie firefighter and kind of worked my way up through the ranks. I've enjoyed every minute of being a member of the department. Now to be able to do it full-time is really exciting," Thomson said.
Kotowich made the announcement of the hiring through a media release on June 28.
"Thomson is well known to the community, and brings with him a vast knowledge and appreciation of the area and its needs," said Kotowich in the statement.
Thomson will begin his new role as Deputy Fire Chief on Aug. 13.
