Gwinnett has appointed Assistant Fire Chief Russell Knick to succeed Fire Chief Casey Snyder, who is retiring after 29 years of service. Knick, a 24-year veteran of the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, assumes his new role on May 6 and is expected to announce additional promotions to fill other key leadership positions in the coming weeks.
Gwinnett County Administrator Glenn Stephens commended Snyder for promoting long-term efficient service delivery, community risk reduction and enhanced emergency medical operations.
Snyder focused efforts on increasing recruit training to the paramedic level and adding medical units to all stations. The department is on track to place two additional med units and a new ladder truck into service before the end of the year.
Knick, who will oversee the department of 952 employees, began his career with Gwinnett in 1990 in the Sheriff’s Office before transferring to the Department of Fire and Emergency Services in 1993. Knick’s experience in fire and emergency medical services management includes high-profile assignments in the areas of strategic planning, leadership development, training and community partnering initiatives.
