Michael Williams Appointed Auburn Fire Chief

The Board of Selectmen has appointed Michael Williams of Hooksett as Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director for the Town of Auburn.

Williams was formally sworn into office by Selectmen Chairman James Headd during the Selectmen's September 10th meeting.

Beginning as a call firefighter in Raymond, Chief Williams has a 27-year career in firefighting and emergency medical service in Hooksett and Manchester including 13 years as Chief of the Hooksett Fire Department.

The Town undertook a formal recruitment process to fill the Fire Chief's position after it became vacant at the end of May.  At the recommendation of the remaining officers of the Auburn Fire Department, the Board of Selectmen agreed to undertake a search outside of the ranks of the Auburn department.  The Town ultimately received 15 applications for the part-time position.

A panel of firefighting and EMS professionals from the region assisted the Town in reviewing the applications and determining who would advance to an Assessment Center process that included an oral board with a professional panel and an interview with a citizens panel.  The Assessment Center provided recommendations to the Board of Selectmen, as did the Auburn Volunteer Firemen's Association.  The Selectmen conducted second interviews with three applicants from whom the Board ultimately chose Chief Williams.

Chief Williams officially assumed the position on September 4th.  He has been appointed for a term of office through March 2020.