NEW LEADERSHIP APPOINTMENTS AT OTTAWA FIRE DEPARTMENT

Ottawa, KS — City Manager Brian W. Silcott is proud to announce the appointment of Shawn Dillon as the new Fire Chief and Stuart Wolzen as the Assistant Fire Chief of the Ottawa Fire Department. The effective date of these promotions is April 28, 2024.

Chief Shawn Dillon has served as Interim Fire Chief since December 2023 and will now continue his leadership as the permanent Fire Chief. With a distinguished career starting in 2006 at the Ottawa Fire Department, Chief Dillon has risen through the ranks from Firefighter EMT-I to Assistant Fire Chief, and most recently as Interim Fire Chief. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from Fort Hays State University and brings extensive field experience and educational knowledge to his role. His leadership has been instrumental in developing cutting-edge emergency response strategies and enhancing the operational capabilities of the fire department.

Assistant Fire Chief Stuart Wolzen brings over two decades of dedicated service in fire safety and emergency services. Beginning his tenure in Ottawa as a Firefighter/EMT, he advanced to Captain and Fire Investigator, a role he has excelled in since 2008. Assistant Chief Wolzen holds a Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration from Columbia Southern University and an Associate Degree in Fire Service Administration from Garden City Community College. His profound expertise in fire administration and emergency response has been crucial in improving department operations and community safety initiatives.

"Both Chief Dillon and Assistant Chief Wolzen exemplify the values and commitment required to lead the Ottawa Fire Department into the future," said City Manager Brian W. Silcott. "Their promotions are a testament to their hard work, leadership, and the trust they have earned from their community and their colleagues."

The City of Ottawa celebrates these well-deserved appointments, confident that under their leadership, the Fire Department will continue to excel in providing top-tier public safety services to the city’s residents.