Lacey Fire District 3 is undergoing a leadership change as Chief Steve Brooks announces his retirement at the end of the year, with Deputy Chief Jennifer Schmidt named as his successor. Schmidt's appointment is significant as she will be one of only five female fire chiefs in Washington state, underscoring strides toward gender equality in a predominantly male field. In her five years as deputy chief, she has managed 150 first responders and handled over 17,000 calls annually. She has also overseen the training division and established an in-house accredited fire academy, enhancing the department's capabilities. Brooks, whose career spans nearly 34 years, will become the executive director for the Washington State Fire Chiefs Association, bringing extensive experience from his previous 14 years of service in Tennessee.

Schmidt's background in union leadership and firefighter mental health positions her well for future challenges. This leadership transition signals a promising future for the Lacey Fire District and its community engagement efforts.