Deputy Chief Devin Garvin Named Acting Fire Chief In Casper

I've always said that one of the toughest yet most rewarding jobs is being a first responder. Every time you put on your fire gear, strap on your gun belt, or grab your med kit, you make an impact by rushing out to help someone who is likely having their worst day, hoping to be there when they need you most.

Sure, you hear negative comments about them, but for every negative comment or story, there are hundreds of positive ones. At the end of the day, we'd be in trouble without them.

I always love hearing about the ones who have done their job for years and proven they deserve the best.

At the end of September, Casper-EMS Department Fire Chief Jacob Black announced his retirement after 25 years of service to Casper and the first department. Staying in any job for 25 years is amazing, but serving the community for 25 years, in my eyes, takes it up a few notches.

Born and raised in Casper, Chief Black worked his way up from firefighter to fire engineer, community risk reduction officer, fire captain, and battalion chief before becoming fire chief in 2022.

Congratulations, Jacob, on a heck of a career.

As Chief Black departs, Deputy Chief Devin Garvin, another 25-year man, will serve as acting Chief. Garvin has progressed from firefighter to deputy chief and has held leadership roles in operations, training, community risk reduction, and fire prevention, including serving as fire marshal.

The Fire Chief role in Casper isn't easy, as you oversee 89 staff across 5 fire stations and administration. In 2025, Casper Fire-EMS Department responded to 9,661 total calls, including 7,135 emergency medical services (EMS) calls and 176 fires.

Congratulations, Devin, on your new role and for helping make Casper and the surrounding area safer.