CARMEL, Ind. (WISH) — The city government of Carmel is welcoming a new fire chief.

Joel Thacker is currently the executive director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. He was appointed to that position by Gov. Eric Holcomb in 2022.

Previously, he was the state fire marshal and the director of the state’s fire and safety division.

Thacker’s first day as Carmel fire chief will be Sept. 3.

This story was created from a script aired on WISH-TV.

News releases

“INDIANAPOLIS-Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced today that Joel Thacker will be stepping down as the executive director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS). The City of Carmel announced today his new role as fire chief.

“Gov. Holcomb named IDHS Chief of Staff Jonathan Whitham as the acting executive director effective Aug. 31.

“‘Joel has been a consistently effective leader when the Hoosiers needed it most during some of the state’s largest natural disasters,’ Gov. Holcomb said. ‘He’s never been afraid to roll up his sleeves and help wherever, whenever he’s needed, understanding an emergency ‘s need for urgent response. Joel was critical when my administration set out to provide better tools, training and resources to firefighters across the state as I know he’ll be there for those in need in his next chapter in life.’

“Thacker was appointed as executive director of IDHS in June 2022 after serving as the state fire marshal and director of the Fire and Building Safety Division since 2020. Prior to his role as state fire marshal, Thacker served as fire chief with the Plainfield Fire Territory.

“Under his leadership, IDHS accomplished the following:

• Expanded the Hub and Spoke Program by building out hands-on fire training centers around the state to ensure that firefighters travel no more than 45-minutes to a training facility.
• Provided $10 million for Volunteer Firefighter Personal Protective Equipment to ensure safety.
• Streamlined the State Disaster Relief Fund for easier access for public and individual assistance after a state declared disaster.
• Increased the maximum amount qualifying individuals can receive from $10,000 to $25,000.
• Provided nearly $15 million over the biennium for emergency medical services readiness training programs, equipment and 911 interoperability study.

“‘It has been a great honor to serve the citizens of Indiana for the last 4 plus years,’ Thacker said. ‘With the support of Governor Holcomb and the General Assembly we have been able to help communities and individuals recover from the impacts of natural disasters as well as provide new training opportunities and equipment to first responders statewide.’

“Thacker’s last day as the executive director of IDHS is Aug. 30, 2024.

“Whitham will maintain his current role as chief of staff while assuming the duties of acting executive director of IDHS. Before his role as chief of staff, Whitham served as general counsel for IDHS since 2014. He also worked as a part time firefighter and EMT at the White River Township Fire Department.

“‘Jonathan has been walking alongside Joel every step of the way and will provide a seamless transition for staff, partners and stakeholders,’ Gov. Holcomb said.

“Whitham earned a bachelor of arts degree from Indiana University and a law degree from Indiana University McKinney School of Law.

“‘I’m honored to be asked to step in during such a crucial time in public safety,’ Whitham said. ‘Indiana has experienced a record number of disasters and we’ve seen the benefits of being prepared under Joel Thacker’s successful leadership. I will continue to focus the agency on preparedness, so Hoosiers remain secure in the state I’m blessed to call home. It is my passion to protect and I’m ready to get to work!’”

Office of Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb

“CARMEL, IN – One of the state’s leading authorities on public safety is joining the City of Carmel as fire chief, Mayor Sue Finkam announced today.

“Joel Thacker will assume the role September 3, providing the leadership and direction necessary to enable members of the Carmel Fire Department to deliver the highest level of fire prevention, EMS and response services to the community.

“Currently executive director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Thacker was appointed to the position by Gov. Eric J. Holcomb in 2022, having previously served as state fire marshal and director of the state’s fire and building safety division.

“‘Joel has been repeatedly called upon at both local and state levels for his leadership and knowledge in public safety,’ Finkam said. ‘I am thrilled to have his expertise focused on our community, leading an impressive team that is committed to the safety of our residents, businesses and visitors.’

“With more than 30 years of public service experience, Thacker served as fire chief of the Plainfield Fire Territory prior to his appointment as state fire marshal. His public safety career began as a volunteer firefighter and EMT in Johnson County. Throughout his leadership roles, he has overseen firefighting and emergency medical services training, fire investigations, cybersecurity preparedness, emergency management response and recovery

“Mayor Finkam involved fire safety peers and community members in the selection process for the chief. The selection process included extensive meetings and interviews to support the final decision.

“‘On behalf of the State of Indiana, I want to thank Joel for his years of service to Hoosier taxpayers,’ said Governor Eric J. Holcomb. ‘I am personally grateful for his commitment to public safety and constant collaboration with the Cabinet. The City of Carmel and Mayor Finkam are fortunate to have him.’

“A public swearing-in ceremony with be held for Chief Thacker with details announced at a later date.

“‘It is an honor to serve the firefighters and people of Carmel and to support Mayor Finkam’s vision,’ Thacker said. ‘Preparedness is crucial for the success of Hoosier families, communities and the state, and I look forward to advancing training, while supporting all partners in ensuring the safety of the Carmel community.’

“Thacker is a licensed paramedic and holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Indiana Wesleyan University and a master’s degree in criminal justice and public safety from Indiana University.”

Carmel city government