PHOENIX (KVOA) – The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management has appointed a new state fire marshal.
Charles E. Dowdy brings more than 30 years of professional experience in fire and life safety, code enforcement and construction to the role. His background includes 22 years in the fire equipment industry where he served as a service manager and 11 years in the fire service.
Dowdy said he is honored to serve as the Arizona State Fire Marshal and continue his journey in the fire service. He said the opportunity is both a privilege and responsibility that he does not take lightly to ensure public and life safety remain at the forefront of the state.
Dowdy will oversee community risk reduction programs, development plan reviews, fire and life safety inspections and regulatory compliance. Before this appointment, he served as the Office of the State Fire Marshal’s fire plans examiner and as assistant fire marshal with Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority.
Dowdy said his leadership is grounded in servant leadership, by supporting personnel, removing organizational barriers and aligning fire prevention and enforcement efforts with operational priorities to strengthen community protection and enhance safety across the state. He said he is proud to stand alongside an exceptional team of professionals at the department whose commitment and experience for public safety only strengthen the mission and help ensure a safer Arizona for all.