CUMBERLAND — City officials announced Thursday that Cumberland Fire Department Battalion Chief Steve Grogg has been named the new fire chief.
Grogg’s selection comes after an “open public search and a comprehensive candidate interview process,” city officials said in a release.
Grogg will succeed retired chief Shannon Adams, who announced his retirement in February.
“It has always been a lifelong goal of mine to be a career firefighter,” Grogg said. “When you are doing a job you love, the time just flies by. The past 30 years seem like the blink of an eye, and I am very excited for this new opportunity.”
Following in his brother Jeff Grogg’s footsteps, Steve Grogg said he served alongside his brother with the city fire department for several years before Jeff Grogg retired after 40 years of service.
Steve Grogg, a Cumberland resident with more than 30 years of fire department experience, began his career in 1995 and progressed through the ranks of the city department, including deputy chief and his current role as battalion chief.
After volunteering for several years with the Wiley Ford Volunteer Fire Department in Mineral County, West Virginia, Grogg began his career with the city at age 28.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in business and marketing from Frostburg State University and brings a wealth of fire service command and administrative experience, according to the release.
City officials said they were pleased with the quality of candidates that were interested in the position and excited to appoint Grogg as the next chief.
“I think this is a very positive thing for the city fire department and the citizens as the fire department progresses,” retired Capt. Buzz Davis said. “He will do a fantastic job.”
Davis said Grogg was one of five firefighters that was hired with him, including Adams, who retired after 31 years of service to the city.
“I started on a Friday, and he started the following Monday,” Davis said. “He is a good firefighter and leader and will make a great chief.”
Deputy Chief Cody Pearce has been serving as the interim chief since April.
Grogg will officially be sworn in at a mayor and City Council meeting on Tuesday, according to the release.
“All of us that were hired at the same time are going to the swearing in on Tuesday,” Davis said.
City Administrator Jeff Silka did not respond to the Times-News’ request for comment.