For Immediate Release: 2/14/2023 2:29 pm
WORCESTER, Mass. – City Manager Eric D. Batista announced Tuesday that Acting Fire Chief Martin Dyer will be appointed the city’s next permanent fire chief, effective immediately.
A 19-year veteran of the Worcester Fire Department (WFD), Dyer has served in several leadership roles, including his most recent appointment as Acting Chief following the retirement of Michael Lavoie, who led the department from 2017 to 2021.
“Chief Dyer is a demonstrated leader who has made significant contributions to fire safety and devoted his life to public service,” said City Manager Batista. “He has risen to every challenge and exceeded every expectation as the Acting Chief. He is dedicated to the members of the WFD and to the public they serve, and I am confident that his permanent appointment will result in a safer city.”
As Acting Chief, Dyer led the development and implementation of the WFD’s strategic plan and operationalized the recommendations from Emergency Services Consulting International’s (ECSI) master plan. He also secured two Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) that delivered $15 million to increase the department’s staffing and equipment, oversaw the hiring and training of over 60 recruits, and successfully negotiated a labor contract that delivered fair wages and safer working conditions for department members.
“As Worcester’s next Fire Chief, my promise is to deliver the highest level of service to the residents and visitors of Worcester,” said Chief Dyer. “My focus is both the safety of our community and the well-being of the department, from the physical and mental health of our members to the longevity of our technology and equipment. It has been a privilege to serve this city as I have, and I am honored to take on the leadership role as Worcester’s next Fire Chief.”
Prior to his appointment as Acting Chief, Dyer served as Deputy Chief for four years, overseeing the WFD’s fleet of over 70 vehicles, maintenance and management of its facilities, and all administrative functions. His career with the department began in 2004, and he rose through the ranks as Lieutenant and Captain before becoming Deputy Chief in 2017. Over that period, he also served as Hazardous Material Technician, Dive Rescue Technician, and Technology Officer.
A swearing-in ceremony for Chief Dyer will be held on March 16 at City Hall, and more details will be announced closer to the event.
