City of Lompoc names Kevin Shay new Fire Chief

LOMPOC, Calif. (KEYT) – The City of Lompoc named Kevin Shay its new Fire Chief after serving as Interim Fire Chief since March 26th this year.

In those four months, Shay helped lead the LFD during organizational change while remaining focused on long-term improvements and reliable emergency response, according to the City of Lompoc.

Lompoc City Manager Dean Albro mentioned his excitement at the new appointment:

After careful consideration of all applicants, Kevin Shay was selected for the position. His extensive firefighting experience and years of service to the Lompoc community demonstrate both his commitment to public service and professionalism. Chief Shay’s dedicated leadership will benefit both our community and the Lompoc Fire Department. I look forward to working with Chief Kevin Shay in his new role as Lompoc Fire Department’s fire chief.

Dean Albro, Lompoc City Manager

Shay brings 20 years of experience in fire service, 18 of which he has spent in Lompoc through operational, training, EMS and administrative leadership roles, according to the City of Lompoc.

Alongside his work with the LFD, Shay also helps train future firefighters as a faculty member at Allan Hancock College, according to the City of Lompoc.

Shay mentioned his own gratitude, humility and responsibility in taking on the role of Fire Chief for the City:

“It is an incredible honor to serve as fire chief. This department has given me opportunities throughout my career that I will always be grateful for. I am humbled by the confidence the city has placed in me, and I look forward to continuing to serve alongside the men and women of this department. Our responsibility is to provide dependable service every day, regardless of the challenges we face,” Shay said. “That starts with taking care of our people, making informed decisions and keeping community needs at the center of what the department does. We have a great department, and I am excited about what we will accomplish for both our department and the city of Lompoc.”

Kevin Shay, Lompoc Fire Chief

Shay's first official day in his new role is Saturda, August 8.