The Fort Wayne Fire Department has officially appointed Cody Brooks as its new Deputy Chief, marking a significant advancement from his previous position as Assistant Chief of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). This transition reflects Brooks’s rapid ascent within the department, where he has played an instrumental role in enhancing training capabilities and operational efficiency.
Brooks’s promotion was announced following his successful tenure as District Chief of EMS, which he began in 2023. During this time, he spearheaded initiatives such as the Mobile Simulation Training Unit and an offsite training lab, both designed to elevate the department’s training programs. His strategic vision also led to the implementation of an asset management system that improved operational efficiency while reducing costs. This fiscal responsibility has garnered recognition from city officials, including Mayor Tom Tucker, who commended Brooks’s leadership and commitment to service.
In a statement, Mayor Tucker remarked, “I continue to be impressed with Cody’s leadership skills and commitment to serving others. I admire his ability to communicate well with staff and develop innovative strategies as an excellent fiscal steward of taxpayer dollars.” This endorsement underscores Brooks’s significant impact on the department’s operations and the trust placed in him by city leadership.
Fire Chief Eric Lahey also expressed confidence in Brooks’s capabilities. Lahey noted, “As the Fire Chief, I’m fortunate to have a proficient, capable staff whose goal is to support the members of the FWFD. Promoting Chief Brooks to the Deputy Chief position only enhances this administrative staff and the great work already being accomplished by all of the members of the FWFD.” His remarks highlight Brooks’s collaborative approach and the trust he has built within the department.
Throughout his career at the Fort Wayne Fire Department, Brooks has initiated new departmental EMS policies, standardized clinical care, and expanded educational outreach through a training partnership with Trine University. These efforts have not only streamlined departmental operations but also positioned the FWFD to better meet the evolving needs of the Fort Wayne community.
Moreover, Brooks is set to graduate from the esteemed Leadership Fort Wayne program in 2025. His ongoing influence within the FWFD suggests that the department’s future is in capable hands, as he continues to drive improvements in service delivery and operational effectiveness.
As the Fort Wayne community looks ahead, Brooks’s leadership is expected to shape the department’s response to future challenges, ensuring that it remains a vital resource for public safety and emergency services.
