Worcester Names Its Newest Fire Chief

WORCESTER, MA — Replacing the retiring Geoffrey Gardell, Michael Lavoie was named the new chief for the city's fire department on Wednesday, announced Worcester City Manager Edward Augustus Jr.

Lavoie, 57, is a 30-year veteran of the Worcester Fire Department who has served in a number of leadership roles. He is currently the deputy chief of administration, in charge of the fire prevention, training and Maintenance division.

"Throughout his career, Chief Lavoie has demonstrated true leadership and commitment to the department and the people of Worcester, and I am thrilled to appoint him as our next chief," said City Manager Augustus in a statement. "I look forward to working with the new chief to continue our efforts to modernize the department's fleet of trucks, renovate stations, invest in safety and diversify the workforce. Chief Lavoie will carry on the rich tradition of the Worcester Fire Department for many years to come."

Gardell has been the Worcester Fire Department chief since 2015, and has been with the department for 33 years.

Augustus also promoted Capt. Martin Dyer to fill Chief Lavoie’s vacated role as deputy chief. Dyer, 43, is a 13-year veteran of the fire department, and for the past three years has been company commander of Engine 16.

"I am honored to take the role as Worcester's Fire Chief. Since the tragic Warehouse Fire in 1999, the safety of firefighters in the department has been my primary motivation, and I plan to continue that focus as chief," said Lavoie in a statement. "My biggest goal is to leave the department better than when I found it."

Lavoie officially takes over as chief on Sunday, Jan. 22. A swearing-in ceremony will be held on Feb. 7 at City Hall.

Photo via City of Worcester