BOISE, Idaho — The City of Boise has announced the final two candidates for the Fire Chief position after a nationwide search. Adrian Sheppard and Scott Walker "exceed professional qualifications and bring the unique qualities needed to lead the Boise Fire Department," according to a news release.
Sheppard is the current Fire Chief of Richmond, California. He has a track record of using new technologies to improve the community emergency response. The news release says Chief Sheppard feels civic engagement is essential to the fire service's quality and values to the community.
Sheppard is a retired Air Force Officer and has a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, a Master of Science in Leadership and Disaster preparedness from Grand Canyon University, and a Master of Arts in Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School. He is also a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School's Executive Leadership Program and is a certified Chief Fire Officer (California State Fire Marshal).
Scott Walker is the current Assistant Chief with the Phoenix Fire Department, where he has 26 years of experience. Walker sees the role as the preservation of life and property, dedication to the community, providing the highest levels of customer service, focus on firefighter safety and wellness, providing a clear vision for the Department, and to create a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture within the Department, according to the release.
Walker has a bachelor’s degree in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University, an Associate Degree in Fire Service and has completed the Executive Leadership Program at the Naval Postgraduate School.
The two candidates have been interviewed by department directors at the City of Boise and three Boise City Council members, Holli Wooding, Lisa Sanchez and Patrick Bageant. Sheppard and Walker will now be interviewed by community stakeholders, Fire Department staff and Union leadership. They will also meet with emergency service leaders from the area.
Feedback will be shared with the Mayor's office and Mayor McLean will make a final decision, which will be forward to City Council.
