The Valley Regional Fire Authority Board of Governance did not have to look far to find its next chief executive.
The board on Wednesday appointed Brent Swearingen, deputy chief of operations, to serve as fire chief and administrator of the VRFA, effective Jan. 1. “Chief Swearingen brings 34 years of experience in the fire service, significant academic achievements and industry credentials,” said Nancy Backus, Auburn mayor and VRFA board chair. “During his tenure as deputy chief at VRFA, he has been a proven leader with demonstrated results.
“My fellow board members and I look forward to working with Brent to continue the longstanding commitment of delivering outstanding service to the people who live, work and visit our communities.”
Swearingen succeeds Eric Robertson, who announced his retirement on Oct. 4. Robertson, who has been at the helm for 12 years, said he will help make the leadership change as seamless as possible.