Ryan Ashe takes the helm at James City County Fire Department after serving as its interim chief for more than five months, James City County officials announced this week.
Ashe's appointment to the position is official as of Dec. 1, County Administrator, Bryan Hill said in a news release.
"The citizens of James City County deserve the best, which includes a local government that is looking ahead to meet the needs of a growing community. Over the past 14 months, I have been impressed with Chief Ashe's ability to be forward-thinking while considering how we can make James City County a better place to live, work and play," Hill added.
Ashe has been Acting Chief since June, after the retirement of former Fire Chief Tal Luton.
County officials had started looking for a new fire chief this month, but hired Ashe after he interviewed for the position and made a presentation, Hill said.
"Ashe has shown the leadership qualities I, as well as the Board of Supervisors, desire in a Fire Chief," he added.
Ashe has been with the Fire Department since 2003 and brings a variety of training and work experience to the position. A graduate of Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection and Safety Technology, he is certified as an Executive Fire Officer with the National Fire Academy and also a certified paramedic with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians.
Ashe completed the Hampton Roads Fire Officer Command School in 2006 and is on the Virginia Task Force 2 Urban Search and Rescue. He is also an adjunct instructor with the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.
"I am excited for the opportunity to serve the department and our citizens. I look forward to working with our team to continue moving the department and the County into the future," said Ashe.
As Fire Chief, Ashe will lead a department that includes 110 emergency responders who respond to over 9,800 calls for emergency service each year.
The Fire Department has five divisions, including operations, support services, the Fire Marshal's Office, emergency communications and emergency management.