AMHERST — The Town Council approved the appointment of new fire chief Lindsay Stromgren during its Dec. 2 meeting, permanently filling the role Stromgren had been temporarily occupying since the summer.
“I am excited to begin this next chapter in my decades long career here at the Amherst Fire Department,” said Stromgren. “I look forward to leading our exceptional team as we continue to serve the residents of Amherst.”
Stromgren grew up in Amherst and began his career with the Amherst Fire Department 42 years ago as a student firefighter, moving through the ranks from professional firefighter and EMT, captain and assistant chief.
He officially began his duties as chief this month, having served as interim chief since June following the retirement of former Chief Tim Nelson.
A graduate of Amherst-Pelham Regional High School, Stromgren earned an associate’s degree from Greenfield Community College in fire science technology and two bachelor’s degrees from the University of Massachusetts in Geography and in fire science administration. He has obtained his executive fire officer certification from the National Fire Academy and is a Massachusetts Credentialed Fire Chief through a program at the Massachusetts Fire Academy.
He also recently completed the staff and command leadership program at the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute.
“Throughout the interview process and through his service as temporary fire chief, Lindsay showcased effective communication skills, as well as a collaborative approach to team and community dynamics,” added Town Manager Paul Bockelman. “He brings a calm and decisive command presence and understands the challenges facing the department in the future. He has earned the trust and respect of the firefighters and paramedics in the department, his professional colleagues and members of the community.”
Stromgren’s community work includes serving as the co-chair of the Campus Community Coalition Against High-Risk Drinking, a member of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, and a voting member of the Western Mass. Regional Interoperability Council. He also serves as a member of the Special Operations Team for the state Department of Fire Services.
Stromgren is also actively a member of the adjunct facility at Greenfield Community College where he teaches classes for the fire science program and is on the Fire Science Advisory Board.
Stromgren was appointed by Bockelman in November.
“Lindsay Stromgren is the leader who can best guide the town of Amherst Fire Department in the coming years,” Bockelman said. “Lindsay brings extensive professional firefighting experience in both operations and administration, advanced educational training in fire science, and a strong commitment to maintaining high quality services and aligning the department with the needs, goals and desires of the town of Amherst.”
The Search Committee formed reviewed 18 applications and invited three candidates to participate for interviews. As part of the final review, the three finalists met with members of the Fire Department in independent open conversations.
Stromgren will participate in the town’s Cuppa’ Joe series with Bockelman on Friday, Dec. 13 from 8-9:30 a.m. at the Coronation Café.
