Lacey Fire District 3 Chief Steve Brooks is retiring at the end of 2024, with Deputy Chief Jennifer Schmidt named as his successor. Schmidt's elevation to chief is notable, placing her among only four other female fire chiefs in Washington state, which reflects progress in gender representation within the fire service. For the past five years, she has successfully managed a team of 150 first responders, responding to over 17,000 calls annually. Schmidt also oversees the training division and has been instrumental in creating an in-house accredited fire academy. Brooks, who has a distinguished career spanning nearly 34 years, will become the executive director of the Washington State Fire Chiefs Association post-retirement.

His experience includes 14 years in Tennessee and various roles within the Lacey Fire District since 2005. Both leaders have significantly contributed to their communities, emphasizing training and mental health in the fire service. This transition marks an important moment for the Lacey Fire District, highlighting both continuity and change in its leadership.