News Summary
Chattanooga Fire Chief Phil Hyman will retire in July 2025 after nearly 30 years with the department. Hyman’s leadership and improvements in firefighter safety have garnered praise, and he leaves behind a legacy of operational excellence. Mayor Tim Kelly commended Hyman’s commitment, emphasizing how his strategic vision and dedication have shaped the future of the Chattanooga Fire Department.
Chattanooga Fire Chief Phil Hyman to Retire in July After Nearly 30 Years of Service
Chattanooga, TN – Fire Chief Phil Hyman has confirmed his retirement, effective July 2025, after nearly three decades of dedicated service with the Chattanooga Fire Department (CFD). Hyman has held various positions within the department, rising from lieutenant to captain, battalion chief, and training chief before his appointment as chief in 2017.
During his tenure, Chief Hyman implemented significant improvements in firefighter health and safety, facilities, equipment, and technology. Under his guidance, the CFD has maintained an ISO Class 1 rating, a distinction that underscores its operational excellence and community service effectiveness. Additionally, Hyman played a critical role in hiring multiple fire academies, a move aimed at expanding the department’s workforce and enhancing its operational capabilities.
As Hyman prepares for his transition into retirement, he has expressed pride in the unwavering dedication and effort demonstrated by the CFD personnel. He has encouraged his team to continue fostering an environment of support and to strive for continuous improvement within the department, reiterating the critical nature of their mission to protect and serve the community.
Hyman’s leadership has been widely praised by city officials, with Mayor Tim Kelly commending his commitment and contributions. Under Hyman’s leadership, the CFD has been recognized as one of the best fire departments in the nation, reflecting the high standards and exceptional service the team has established.
The strong sense of community and dedication to the mission have been hallmarks of Hyman’s administration. He has emphasized the importance of firefighters taking ownership of their roles and pursuing continual professional and personal growth for the greater good of Chattanooga. As he prepares to retire, Hyman described the CFD as having a special place in his heart and indicated that he will miss his team, but he will continue to keep them in his thoughts and prayers.
Chief Hyman’s announcement comes at a pivotal time as he leaves behind a legacy of excellence that will undoubtedly influence the department long after his departure. His commitment and strategic vision have set a solid foundation for future leaders in the CFD and have reinforced the values that prioritize safety, innovation, and community engagement.
As Chattanooga looks to the future, the Fire Department is poised to continue operating at its high standards, thanks in part to the groundwork laid by Chief Hyman over his nearly 30 years of service. His retirement signifies the end of an era, but also marks the beginning of a new chapter for the CFD, with the hope that the momentum of improvement and excellence will persist.
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Fire Chief Finalists Selected
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Fire Chief Phil Hyman Retiring in July
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee
- Firefighter Nation: Chattanooga Fire Captain Dies During Workout
- Google News: Chattanooga Fire Department
- WBIR: Chattanooga Fire Department Member Died
- Google Search: Firefighter Health and Safety
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
