New Deputy Chief Welcomed to Macon Bibb County Fire Department

In a special ceremony held at Headquarters on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, the Macon Bibb County Fire Department proudly introduced its newest Deputy Chief, Ron Smith, Jr. Smith, a third-generation Macon-Bibb firefighter, brings with him a wealth of experience accumulated over his 20 years of service.

Having worked his way up the ranks, Smith most recently served as the Division Chief of Training, where he played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Department’s cutting-edge Training Center on Tinker Drive, funded by the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (#SPLOST).

“I’m just thankful to have the opportunity to see this department and community grow into what it has the potential to be. The Fire Department is the heartbeat of our community because we are involved in it at every level, from responding to fires to inspecting buildings for safety to education to parades and more,” says Chief Smith. “I’m just proud to be part of something that helps my community in such an amazing way.”

“We have some great leaders in our Fire Department; we continue to grow our own and I’m exctied about that,” Mayor Lester Miller told the crowd. “We want to wish you well, we’ll be there for you, and we’re going to give you all the tools you need to do this job. We’ll always have your back.”

Addressing the recruits and privates in attendance, Fire Chief Shane Edwards underscored the department’s legacy of training future leaders, noting Chief Smith’s familial ties to the department and his rapid ascension to a leadership role.

In his new capacity as Deputy Chief, Smith will assume oversight of various administrative divisions within the department, including fire prevention, training, fleet management, arson investigation, and special operations.

“I’m here to extend my hand and say I look forward to working with you, and helping you make sure your department has what it needs to do its job,” County Manager Dr. Keith Moffett told him after letting him know he was entering a whole new world of administration.