Chambana Sun

City Manager Dorothy Ann David has announced the appointment of Andy Quarnstrom as the new Fire Chief of the City of Champaign. Quarnstrom, who has been with the Champaign Fire Department for over 26 years and currently serves as the Acting Deputy Fire Chief of Operations, will assume his new role on March 1, 2024, or upon the appointment of a replacement Township Supervisor, whichever comes sooner.

Throughout his career, Quarnstrom has climbed the ranks within the Champaign Fire Department, starting as a Firefighter in 1997 and progressing through various positions such as Fire Engineer, Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, and Battalion Chief. He has demonstrated his leadership skills and expertise in fire prevention and suppression, emergency response management, training and mentoring, fiscal management, and community risk reduction initiatives. Quarnstrom has also been involved in responding to large-scale emergencies and has served in roles such as EMS coordinator, SWAT team medic, and COVID-19 Response Leader.

City Manager Dorothy Ann David expressed her confidence in Quarnstrom's appointment, stating, "Andy is respected as a leader in fire and emergency services, and his extensive knowledge of our City makes him the right choice to serve as our next Chief." She emphasized his commitment to public service and his dedication to the residents of Champaign throughout his 26 years of experience in the Fire Department.

Quarnstrom himself expressed his gratitude for the appointment, saying, "I am honored and humbled to be appointed as Champaign's next Fire Chief. It will be an honor to lead this department of dedicated and talented firefighters in a city and community that I love and have had the distinct pleasure to serve over the last 26 years."

In terms of qualifications, Quarnstrom holds an Associate of Applied Science in Paramedicine degree from Parkland College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Public Administration from Southern New Hampshire University. He is also working towards completing his Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Illinois Springfield.

Andy Quarnstrom's appointment as the new Fire Chief of Champaign brings with it a wealth of experience and dedication to the community. As he takes on this important leadership role, the City of Champaign can expect to see the continued excellence and professionalism that the Fire Department embodies.

Click this link to access more information: https://champaignil.gov/2023/12/08/city-manager-announces-appointment-of-new-champaign-fire-chief/