Gatlinburg's search for a new fire chief has come to a decisive end as the city appoints David M. Gray to the role, with his term set to begin on January 3, 2026. Gray's introduction to the Gatlinburg Fire Department will start a little earlier, on December 1, 2025, to securely prepare for the leadership transition. He succeeds Chief Charlie Cole, who retires January 2 after a noteworthy tenure that stretched over 38 years. As reported by Gatlinburg's official announcement, Gray arrives with a wealth of experience gleaned from his time as Assistant Fire Chief and Paramedic at the Knoxville Fire Department.
The new Chief's resume impresses with an extensive background in emergency response, ready to helm Gatlinburg's firefighting operations. Gray is well-versed in the ins and outs of fire service and emergency medical operations, a blend of expertise that caught the eye of city officials. To explicitly showcase his capabilities, the City of Gatlinburg is hosting an opportunity for citizens to directly meet Chief Gray on November 18 at a public meet-and-greet. "Chief Gray’s extensive leadership experience throughout his career in the fire service and his deep knowledge of both fire and emergency medical operations make him an exceptional choice to lead the Gatlinburg Fire Department," Gatlinburg City Manager Greg Patterson expressed, as noted in the City of Gatlinburg press release.
Gray's qualifications are substantial, featuring premier certifications such as the Executive Fire Officer designation from the National Fire Academy and Tennessee Fire Officer IV. His educational journey spans several institutions, culminating in a Master of Science in Fire Executive Leadership and Public Administration from Columbia Southern University. His career trajectory has taken him through various emergency service roles, which include paramedic, incident commander, and instructor.
The depth of Gray’s engagement in fire and emergency services extends to teaching as well, with him serving as an instructor for multiple emergency medical and fire training programs nationwide. "It is an honor to be selected as the next Fire Chief for the City of Gatlinburg," Gray said to the City of Gatlinburg website. "The Gatlinburg Fire Department has a proud history of service and excellence, and I look forward to leading its dedicated team of professionals in continuing to protect and serve this great community." His appointment signals Gatlinburg's continued commitment to high standards in public safety and community service.
In his new role, Chief Gray will oversee the strategic and operational leadership of the Gatlinburg Fire Department. This includes emergency response operations, personnel management, fire prevention tactics, and community outreach initiatives.
