DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — Melvin K. Carter has been appointed as the chief of DeKalb County Fire Rescue.
DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer Lorraine Cochran-Johnson announced the appointment, selecting a 26-year veteran of the department to lead the agency.
Carter is a lifelong resident of DeKalb County and a graduate of Cedar Grove High School.
He brings more than two decades of experience to the role, with a background that includes fire suppression, emergency medical services, recruitment and fiscal administration.
Carter has served in several executive leadership roles during his career. His previous roles include deputy chief of operations, deputy chief of training and professional services, and deputy chief of fiscal and support services.
During these assignments, he oversaw initiatives involving fleet and facilities management, personnel readiness and organizational strategy.
Cochran-Johnson highlighted Carter’s history with the community during the announcement. She noted that Carter has spent his career protecting the area where he was raised while training future firefighters.
“Chief Carter represents the very best of DeKalb County, homegrown talent, proven leadership and an unwavering commitment to service,” Cochran-Johnson said. “Chief Carter understands DeKalb, he understands this department, and most importantly, he understands that leadership is ultimately about people and service. I am confident he will continue to strengthen DeKalb County Fire Rescue and position the department for long-term success.”
Carter holds a master of arts in organizational leadership and a bachelor of applied science in organizational leadership with a concentration in occupational safety and health.
He also earned an associate of applied science in fire science technology and is a graduate of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute and Leadership DeKalb. He is credentialed as a chief fire officer.
Beyond his departmental duties, Carter is active in several professional organizations. He currently serves on the Georgia Trauma Task Force Board of Directors and is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.
As chief, Carter said he intends to prioritize leadership development and ensure the department is equipped to handle the changing needs of the county.
He said that the strength of the agency comes from the personnel who answer calls for service.
“It is an incredible honor to serve as fire chief in the community where I was born, raised and have dedicated my career,” Carter said. “As Chief, my focus will be on ensuring they have the leadership, training, resources and support necessary to protect our residents at the highest level.”
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