IAFC Endorses President Obama's Nomination of Chief Ernie Mitchell for U.S. Fire Administrator

Today President Obama announced his intention to nominate Ernest Mitchell, Jr., IAFC President 2003-2004, to the position of U.S. Fire Administrator.

“The IAFC is proud to endorse Chief Ernie Mitchell’s nomination to be U.S. Fire Administrator,” said Chief Jack Parow, the IAFC’s president and chairman of the board. “I’m pleased that President Obama recognizes the great respect that America’s fire service has for Chief Mitchell’s leadership and integrity. The IAFC urges the Senate to move quickly to confirm Chief Mitchell to this position.”

Before retiring in 2004, Chief Mitchell served as fire chief and assistant director of disaster emergency services for the Pasadena (Calif.) Fire Department. Previously, from 1991 to 1998, he served as fire chief and deputy city manager of Monrovia, Calif. He also served as a battalion chief for the city of Compton, California.

In addition to maintaining his active membership in the IAFC and serving on its President’s Council, Mitchell currently serves on the International Association of Fire Fighters' Hazardous Materials Advisory Board and the International Fire Service Training Association's Executive Board. He holds an A.S. in fire science from Long Beach City College, a B.P.A. from the University of San Francisco and an M.P.A. from California State University at Northridge.

In a statement issued by the White House outlining a number of intended nominations, President Obama is quoted as saying, ‘“These dedicated individuals bring a wealth of experience and talent to their new roles and I am proud to have them serve in this Administration. I look forward to working with them in the months and years to come.”