GATLINBURG, Tenn.—The City of Gatlinburg has named David M. Gray as its next Fire Chief, effective January 3, 2026. Gray will begin his employment with the City on December 1, 2025, to allow for a transition period, before assuming the department’s top leadership role. Chief Charlie Cole is retiring after over 38 years of service with the Gatlinburg Fire Department on January 2, 2026.
Gray brings many years of fire service and emergency medical experience to Gatlinburg. He currently serves as Assistant Fire Chief and Paramedic for the Knoxville Fire Department, where he oversees multiple fire stations and leads incident command operations for fire, rescue, and EMS incidents. His tenure with the Knoxville Fire Department has included management of emergency medical services, training programs, logistics, and public safety initiatives.
“Chief Gray’s extensive leadership experience throughout his career in the fire service and his deep knowledge of both fire and emergency medical operations make him an exceptional choice to lead the Gatlinburg Fire Department,” said Gatlinburg City Manager Greg Patterson. “His proven commitment to training, service, and public safety will be a tremendous asset to our community.”
“It is an honor to be selected as the next Fire Chief for the City of Gatlinburg,” Gray said. “The Gatlinburg Fire Department has a proud history of service and excellence, and I look forward to leading its dedicated team of professionals in continuing to protect and serve this great community.”
A meet-and-greet for the public to meet Chief Gray will be held on Tuesday, November 18 at 9 a.m. at Gatlinburg Fire Department Station No. 2, which is located at 309 Reagan Drive. Parking will be available behind the station for the public attending the event.
Gray holds the Executive Fire Officer (EFO) designation from the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. This designation is one of the most prestigious credentials in the fire service profession. This program is designed for senior fire executives and focuses on advanced leadership, public administration, risk management, and strategic community engagement. Participants complete extensive applied research projects addressing real-world challenges within their organizations. Earning the EFO distinction signifies a deep commitment to professional development, innovative leadership, and the highest standards of public safety service — qualities Gray has consistently demonstrated throughout his career.
Gray is also certified as a Tennessee Fire Officer IV. He also serves as an instructor for numerous state and national emergency medical and fire training programs, including courses for the American Heart Association and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians.
He earned a Master of Science in Fire Executive Leadership and Public Administration from Columbia Southern University, a Bachelor of Science in Applied Organizational Management from Tusculum University, and an Associate of Applied Science in General Technology from Roane State Community College.
Gray’s career in public safety began with the Rural/Metro Fire Department in Knoxville. Over the years, he has served in multiple emergency service capacities, including paramedic, incident commander, and instructor. He has also worked with Sevier County Emergency Medical Service and HEPACO Inc., where he performed hazardous materials mitigation and cleanup operations.
As Fire Chief, Gray will oversee all aspects of the Gatlinburg Fire Department, including emergency response operations, personnel management, fire prevention, and community outreach.
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