Terry Essary is stepping in as the new Fire Chief for the Edmond Fire Department, following a 28-year tenure at the Stillwater Fire Department, where his most recent role was as Chief since January 2021, according to an announcement from the City of Edmond. Essary, who replaces retired Fire Chief Chris Goodwin, brings extensive experience and a commitment to the community to his new leadership position over a 160-person team.
Beginning July 1, Essary will take the helm of the Edmond Fire Department, his wealth of background includes time spent as a certified Paramedic and working with the Stillwater Police Department's Special Operations Team, Essary shared in a statement with the City of Edmond that he's "deeply honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve this incredible community". His academic credentials feature a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice from East Central University and his continued education encompasses several leadership and fire service programs. Engaged in his field, Essary is a member of prestigious professional organizations and currently sits on the Executive Board of the Oklahoma Fire Chief’s Association.
Terry Essary's family ties were also highlighted in the announcement, noting his marriage to Amber and their children, Taylor, Aspen, and Timber, which grounds his professional endeavors in a personal commitment to family and community safety. With his first day at Edmond fast approaching, Essary remarked on the City of Edmond, “To our city leaders — thank you for your trust. To the citizens of Edmond — your safety will always be our top priority. And to the dedicated men and women of the Edmond Fire Department — I’m proud to stand beside you."
The qualifications that Essary brings to the table are noteworthy; to not only include those executive acknowledgments with the Chief Fire Officer certification from the Center for Public Safety Excellence, but he's also ventured into the realm of knowledge through the National Fire Academy and institutions like New Mexico Tech and the Center for Domestic Preparedness that sharpen the acumen required for such a critical role.
