Joel Thacker sworn in as Carmel Fire Chief
Sworn in by the Honorable Judge Michael A. Casati, Chief Joel Thacker is joined by his wife Julie.
CARMEL, Ind., Sept. 10, 2024 - Joel Thacker was officially sworn in as Carmel Fire Chief yesterday evening in a public ceremony at The Tarkington Theater. The event was led by Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam and open to all members of the Carmel community. Thacker is set to lead the Carmel Fire Department in delivering top-tier fire prevention, emergency medical and response services to the community.
"Joel Thacker brings a wealth of experience and leadership to our fire department. His dedication to public service and deep understanding of public safety make him the ideal choice to lead our firefighters and first responders," said Mayor Finkam. "I am confident that under his leadership, Carmel will continue to be a safe and resilient community."
Thacker was appointed to the position in August 2024, following his role as executive director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security under Governor Eric J. Holcomb in 2022. He also previously served as the state fire marshal and director of the state’s Fire and Building Safety Division.
"I am deeply honored to serve as the city's fire chief," said Thacker. "I look forward to working alongside the dedicated men and women of the Carmel Fire Department to uphold the highest standards of service and safety for our community."
With more than 30 years of public service, Thacker’s experience includes serving as fire chief of the Plainfield Fire Territory and beginning his career as a volunteer firefighter and emergency medical technician in Johnson County. He has overseen various critical functions such as firefighting and emergency medical services training, fire investigations, cybersecurity preparedness and emergency management response and recovery.
Thacker is a licensed paramedic and holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University and a master’s degree in Criminal Justice and Public Safety from Indiana University. Thacker is married to Julie and they have two children, Elaina and Aidan.
This link takes you to more photos from the ceremony on the City of Carmel's Facebook page.
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Mayor Finkam, Carmel City Councilors and members of the Carmel Fire Department joined Chief Thacker on stage.
Front row left to right: Deputy Fire Marshal Will Mueller; Fire Fighter/Paramedic Chris Walker;
Councilor Shannon Minnaar; Councilor Dr. Anita Joshi; Chief Joel Thacker; Mayor Sue Finkam; Councilor Adam Aasen; Councilor Teresa Ayers; Fire Fighter Tim Griffin.
Second row left to right: Fire Fighter Andrew Scott; Fire Fighter Jordan Painter; Fire Fighter Andrew Butts; Councilor Rich Taylor; Councilor Jeff Worrell; Council President Tony Green; Councilor Matt Snyder; Battalion Chief J.C. Mitchell.
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About the City of Carmel, Indiana
The City of Carmel is a thriving community in Central Indiana and is ranked one of the most livable mid-size U.S. cities. Known nationwide for pioneering urban design, Carmel has received numerous awards for its community amenities, quality of life, business environment and excellent schools, and continues to build community for those who live, work, play and visit the city. For more information, visit www.carmel.in.gov.
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