10/23/2026
We are proud to announce the appointment of Phil Stelle as the new Deputy Fire Chief for the Chico Fire Department!
Chief Stelle brings 27 years of fire service experience to his new position, including more than 20 years serving the Chico community. His career with Chico Fire began as a volunteer firefighter in 2003 before he was hired full-time in 2006. Since then, he has served as a Firefighter, Fire Apparatus Engineer, and Fire Captain, building a wealth of experience in emergency operations, leadership, training, and specialized rescue.
Throughout his career, Chief Stelle has made significant contributions to our department and community. He has served as the leader of our Technical Rescue Team, helped establish both our Fire Investigation Team and Drone Program, and played an instrumental role in securing approximately $6 million in grant funding to support critical staffing, apparatus, equipment, and firefighter safety improvements.
In 2019, Phil was recognized as the Chico Fire Department's Firefighter of the Year, a testament to his dedication and service. He is also a graduate of Chico State, where he earned his bachelor's degree in Public Administration, and Butte College, where he earned his degree in Fire Science.
As Deputy Fire Chief of Operations, Chief Stelle will play a key leadership role in overseeing our daily emergency operations, supporting our firefighters, and helping guide the continued growth and improvement of the Chico Fire Department.
We are incredibly fortunate to have someone with Phil's experience, dedication, and commitment to our community stepping into this important leadership role.
Please join us in welcoming Chief Phil Stelle as our new Deputy Fire Chief!
We are proud to announce the appointment of Phil Stelle as the new Deputy Fire Chief for the Chico Fire Department!
Chief Stelle brings 27 years of fire service experience to his new position, including more than 20 years serving the Chico community. His career with Chico Fire began as a volunteer firefighter in 2003 before he was hired full-time in 2006. Since then, he has served as a Firefighter, Fire Apparatus Engineer, and Fire Captain, building a wealth of experience in emergency operations, leadership, training, and specialized rescue.
Throughout his career, Chief Stelle has made significant contributions to our department and community. He has served as the leader of our Technical Rescue Team, helped establish both our Fire Investigation Team and Drone Program, and played an instrumental role in securing approximately $6 million in grant funding to support critical staffing, apparatus, equipment, and firefighter safety improvements.
In 2019, Phil was recognized as the Chico Fire Department's Firefighter of the Year, a testament to his dedication and service. He is also a graduate of Chico State, where he earned his bachelor's degree in Public Administration, and Butte College, where he earned his degree in Fire Science.
As Deputy Fire Chief of Operations, Chief Stelle will play a key leadership role in overseeing our daily emergency operations, supporting our firefighters, and helping guide the continued growth and improvement of the Chico Fire Department.
We are incredibly fortunate to have someone with Phil's experience, dedication, and commitment to our community stepping into this important leadership role.
Please join us in welcoming Chief Phil Stelle as our new Deputy Fire Chief!
