Submitted
City Manager Mike Schrage and Deputy City Manager Jacob Wood have announced the appointment of Shane Pearson as the new Fire Chief for the Salina Fire Department.
Pearson, who is in his 25th year with the department, has served as interim Fire Chief since November 2024. His previous roles include Deputy Fire Chief, EMS Chief, Firefighter/EMT, and Firefighter/Paramedic. He joined the Salina Fire Department with prior experience as a volunteer firefighter and EMT in another community.
In addition to his service in Salina, Pearson is the current Kansas State Firefighters Association President and serves on the Kansas Board of Emergency Medical Services.
Schrage noted that Pearson’s appointment follows a national search that drew 28 candidates from across the country.
“Chief Pearson has a blend of EMS expertise, fire operations experience, and vision for the department that elevated him above a very strong candidate pool,” Schrage said.
Deputy City Manager Wood added, “Chief Pearson’s vision and approach as he continues to lead at the Salina Fire Department will both contribute to the department’s continuity and move them to the next level. We have some exciting things on the horizon for the Salina Fire Department, and they will continue to provide excellent service and care for our citizens.”