The West Metro Fire Rescue Board of Directors is proud to announce the appointment of Deputy Chief Jeremy Metz as the district's new fire chief. Chief Metz will step into the role effective August 1, 2025, following an extensive and rigorous selection process that spanned several months.

Chief Metz emerged as the top candidate from a pool of highly qualified internal applicants. The selection process involved comprehensive vetting and panel interviews to assess each candidate's leadership skills, technical expertise, and vision for the future of the district. The Board extended an offer to Chief Metz, which he has accepted. The contract will be considered for approval at the next board meeting on April 15.

"We are confident that Chief Metz’s experience, leadership, and dedication to the community make him the ideal choice to lead West Metro Fire Rescue," said Jerry Cassel, President of the Board of Directors. "His deep understanding of the district and his commitment to innovation and firefighter safety will ensure our continued success in serving and protecting our residents."

Chief Metz brings over three decades of experience in the fire service. He began his career in 1992 as a firefighter/EMT with the Colorado Air National Guard and graduated from St. Anthony's paramedic program in 1996. He joined West Metro Fire Rescue in 1998, where he has held multiple roles, including firefighter/paramedic technician, special teams captain, district chief, and Division Chief for Emergency Medical Services. In 2021, he was appointed Deputy Chief of Administration.

"It is an incredible honor to be chosen to lead West Metro Fire Rescue," said Chief Metz. "I look forward to continuing our mission of protecting lives and property while supporting the health and well-being of our firefighters and the communities we serve."

In addition to his extensive experience, Chief Metz has served as the chair of the National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) Technical Committee on Special Protective Clothing and Equipment since 2013. He also co-chairs West Metro’s Benefits Strategic Planning Team (SPT) and the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)/Uniform SPT. 

Chief Metz holds an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science from Red Rocks Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration from Colorado State University, and a Master of Public Administration from Columbia Southern University. He is a graduate of the National Fire Academy's (NFA) Executive Fire Officer (EFO) program and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) program. 

Metz is also a graduate of the Federation of European Union (FEU) Officer Development program and holds the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) credential from the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE).

Chief Metz will officially assume his new role during a Change of Command ceremony on August 1, 2025, succeeding Fire Chief Don Lombardi, who is retiring.