San Ramon Deputy Fire Chief Tapped for Interim Job in Vallejo
Vallejo, CA
– The City of Vallejo has announced the appointment of Keith Caldwell, Deputy Fire Chief of the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, as Interim Fire Chief for the Vallejo Fire Department (VFD). Chief Caldwell brings over 30 years of experience in firefighting and emergency management to his new role. He has served with the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District for the past 15 years, where he has held various positions including Fire Captain, Battalion Chief, and Deputy Fire Chief. “We are confident that Chief Caldwell’s extensive experience and proven leadership will benefit the Vallejo Fire Department and our community,” said Vallejo City Manager Greg Nyhoff. “We welcome him to our team and look forward to his contributions.” In his previous role, Chief Caldwell was responsible for managing operations, training, and administration for the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District. He has also served as the Fire Chief for Contra Costa County Fire Protection District’s Division 7 and as a wildland fire incident commander for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). Chief Caldwell holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Administration and is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program. He is also a licensed Paramedic and Emergency Medical Technician. “I am honored to serve as the Interim Fire Chief for the Vallejo Fire Department,” said Chief Caldwell. “I look forward to working with the dedicated men and women of the VFD to enhance public safety and provide exceptional service to the Vallejo community.” Chief Caldwell’s appointment is effective immediately and will continue until a permanent Fire Chief is selected through a recruitment process.
San Ramon Deputy Fire Chief Tapped for Interim Job in Vallejo
Vallejo City Manager Greg Nyhoff has appointed San Ramon Deputy Fire Chief and Fire Marshal Brian Helmick as Vallejo’s interim fire chief. Helmick’s appointment, effective August 5, 2023, comes after the retirement of former Vallejo Fire Chief Daryl Arbuthnot. Helmick has over 20 years of experience in fire and emergency services, including serving as the deputy fire chief for the City of Pleasanton and as a battalion chief for the City of Fremont. During his tenure in San Ramon, Helmick led the city’s fire prevention and suppression efforts, as well as its emergency preparedness and response programs. He was also involved in the development and implementation of the city’s strategic plan for fire and emergency services. Helmick said he is honored to serve as Vallejo’s interim fire chief and looks forward to working with the Vallejo Fire Department to continue providing high-quality fire and emergency services to the community. “I am committed to working collaboratively with the department and the community to ensure that Vallejo has a fire department that is responsive, efficient, and effective,” Helmick said. City Manager Nyhoff expressed confidence in Helmick’s ability to lead the Vallejo Fire Department during this transition period. “Brian Helmick brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role,” Nyhoff said. “I am confident that he will provide strong leadership to the Vallejo Fire Department and help ensure the safety of our community.” Helmick’s appointment is expected to last for approximately one year, while the city conducts a search for a permanent fire chief.
