ALACHUA COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Alachua County is proud to announce that Fire Rescue Chief Harold Theus has been named the 2025 Career Fire Chief of the Year by the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association (FFCA).

This prestigious award, announced at last week’s FFCA’s Executive Development Conference in Miami, is presented annually to a fire chief who demonstrates outstanding leadership, dedication, service to their community, and is someone their peers respect.

“On behalf of the entire county family, I want to congratulate Chief Theus on this well-deserved award,” said Alachua County Manager Michele Lieberman. “His leadership, courage, and unwavering commitment to public safety continue to set the standard not just in our community, but across the state. We’re incredibly proud to have him leading the way.”

Next week marks Theus’ 31st anniversary with Alachua County Fire Rescue.

He began his career in 1994 as a firefighter/emergency medical technician (EMT). He steadily rose through the ranks, becoming deputy chief in 2015 and assuming the role of fire chief in 2019, following the retirement of then-Chief Bill Northcutt.

Throughout his career, Theus has played a pivotal role in advancing the department. Most recently, the department has experienced significant growth under his leadership, including the addition of new resources and the completion of two new fire stations. He has also expanded services with the launch of a Community Health Program, aimed at filling gaps in medical care.

“I am truly humbled by this recognition,” he said. “It is a reflection of the shared commitment among the County Commission, county management staff, and every member of Alachua County Fire Rescue in our joint pursuit to provide excellent service to our community.”

For more information, contact Chief Theus at 352-384-3101 or hmt@AlachuaCounty.us.

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