Ronald D. Blackwell was appointed the 13th fire chief of the Wichita Fire Department in October 2007. He manages the day-to-day operations of the largest fire department in the state of Kansas. The department includes more than 400 commissioned and civilian personnel operating from 22 fire stations.

Chief Blackwell’s fire service career began in 1970 as a Fire Protection Specialist in the United States Air Force. Following an honorable discharge he worked as an Airport Safety Officer. During his thirty plus year career, he has served in a variety of positions. His career includes service as Fire Chief with the Prince George’s County Fire and Emergency Medical Service Department (MD) where he played an important role in the apprehension of the DC Serial Arsonist as well as Fire Chief in Anne Arundel County (MD). He also served as the Interim Executive Director of the International Association of Arson Investigators.

Blackwell is a graduate of Wichita State University. He has a Master of Public Administration degree from the Hugo Wall School of Urban and Public Affairs at Wichita State University as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in education. He is also a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program and has served on its adjunct facility. In 2009, he was recognized as the featured alumnus at the Hugo Wall School of Urban and Public Affairs, Hugo Wall Day at Wichita State University. He was also recognized as the Kansas Fire Chief of the Year by the Kansas State Association of Fire Chiefs for outstanding service.