Tacoma Fire Department: History, Structure, and Community Impact

Established in 1880, the Tacoma Fire Department has evolved from volunteer brigades to a modern emergency response organization serving a growing urban population.
The department extends its reach beyond city limits, providing critical fire protection to surrounding communities including Fircrest, Fife, and parts of Pierce County.
With a commitment to excellence, the TFD operates under guiding principles of integrity, service, and community partnership while maintaining advanced training and equipment standards.
Modern operations feature strategic station placement supported by interactive maps, ensuring rapid response across Tacoma's diverse neighborhoods.
Leadership includes a dedicated command staff overseeing both operational and administrative functions, supported by experienced personnel across all ranks.
Community engagement remains central, with outreach programs, educational initiatives, and public safety partnerships forming key aspects of departmental mission.

Contact Information

Phone: (253) 591-5737

Email: tacomafiredepartment@[SITEURL]

Address: 901 Fawcett Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402

Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Emergency services available via 9-1-1

The TFD maintains ten strategically located stations equipped with state-of-the-art apparatus and technology to ensure effective emergency response throughout the region.

Command Staff

Tacoma Fire Chief Sionna Stallings-Ala'ilima

Fire Chief Sionna Stallings-Ala'ilima brings extensive experience from multiple leadership positions within the department to her role as chief.

Her background spans firefighting, paramedic work, and senior command roles. Outside of duty, she enjoys music, travel, and family time while representing her heritage with pride.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Biology, University of Washington

Professional Activities

Seattle Fire Department Executive Leadership Academy
National Fire Academy Executive Chief Officer Course
Comprehensive Life Resources Board Member
American Leadership Forum Senior Fellow
Pacific Islander Health Board of Washington Board Member

Command Staff

Deputy Chief Lee Law supports the Fire Chief in managing operations, budgeting, and strategic planning for the department’s administrative functions.

Experience includes

Firefighter and paramedic roles
Lieutenant, Captain, and Battalion Chief positions
Assistant Chief of Operations Bureau

Command Staff

Assistant Chief Operations Bureau Gil Barthe

Assistant Chief Gil Barthe contributes leadership across administration, logistics, and training divisions, drawing on decades of service within the department.

Career highlights include

Firefighter and paramedic service
Lieutenant, Captain, Battalion Chief roles
Safety and training leadership positions

Command Staff

Assistant Chief Operations Bureau Grant Larsen

Assistant Chief Grant Larsen focuses on operational efficiency, resource allocation, and strategic support for department leadership.

Professional background

Firefighter and paramedic experience
Leadership in safety and training programs

Command Staff

Assistant Chief Operations Bureau Josh Schlesner

Assistant Chief Josh Schlesner oversees emergency medical services, supporting both operational readiness and strategic growth initiatives.

Career highlights

Firefighter, paramedic, and leadership roles
Command and administration expertise

Command Staff

Deputy Chief Administration Bureau Bruce Bouyer

Deputy Chief Bruce Bouyer coordinates administration, facilities, and human resources, bringing decades of service and leadership to department management.

Career milestones include

Multiple leadership positions across operations
Assistant Chief of Administration

Command Staff

Assistant Chief Administration Bureau Alex Wilsie

Assistant Chief Alex Wilsie manages administration, training, prevention, and IT functions while serving as Deputy Harbormaster for the City of Tacoma.