The following is a press release from Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority.

The next chapter of Puget Sound Fire begins today, Sept. 11, with the new fire chief, Matt Morris, starting his first day on the job.

Morris takes over for former fire chief, Jim Schneider, who retired at the end of August after leading the department for 15 years.

Morris has over 27 years of experience from the fire service. He began his career as a reserve firefighter/EMT in 1990 for the city of Boulder, Nevada. He was then hired by the city of Henderson, Nevada as a firefighter/paramedic where he spent the next 22 years. He rose through the ranks of captain, battalion chief and deputy chief, before being promoted to fire chief in January, 2016.

“I have a philosophy that is value-based and focuses on taking care of people and building strong relationships,” Morris said. “I want this fire department to continue to be a trusted community partner because that helps keep us all safe.”

Prior to joining the fire service, Morris served in the US. Navy as an aviation technician assigned to Air Squadron VA-176 on the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt.

A graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer program, Morris has recently completed his MBA. He is also a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

Morris, who is engaged to be married, has two children, both in college.

The members of the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority and Governance Board welcome Morris to the department and look forward to many successful years of serving our community.