Interim Fire Chief Paul Langel
Interim Fire Chief Paul Langel began his career with the St. Lucie County Fire District in 1997. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Administration from Columbia Southern University and an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Indian River State College. He attended the Managing Officer Program at the United States Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland, and is a graduate of the Staff and Command Class through the University of Maryland Fire College.
Chief Langel is a certified Life Safety Inspector I/II, Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator, State of Florida Fire Codes Administrator, Certified District Manager, and one of 189 internationally designated Fire Marshals through the Center for Public Safety Excellence. He also holds the Member grade designation with the Institution of Fire Engineers.
Throughout his career, Chief Langel has held various leadership responsibilities within the Fire District, providing executive oversight of training, safety, information technology, accreditation, strategic planning, professional development, compliance, human resources, and other administrative functions. He has also served on several District committees, including the Safety Committee, Retirement Health Insurance Trust, Strategic Planning Committee, and Health and Welfare Trust.
As Interim Fire Chief, Chief Langel provides executive leadership for all Fire District operations, personnel, programs, and services. He works closely with the Board of Commissioners and District leadership to establish organizational priorities, ensure fiscal responsibility, and support the delivery of exceptional fire rescue and emergency medical services to the residents and visitors of St.Lucie County.
Chief Langel is committed to fostering a culture of transparency, open communication, accountability, and mutual respect throughout the Fire District. He recognizes the importance of building trust at every level of the organization and values the input and perspectives of District personnel. As he works to establish the District's command staff structure and update the organizational chart, his focus remains on strengthening organizational leadership, supporting employees, and ensuring the continued success of the Fire District.