Joseph (Shawn) Hillhouse selected as Gainesville’s new fire chief
Published on May 29, 2025
After a nationwide search, the City of Gainesville is pleased to announce Joseph (Shawn) Hillhouse as its next fire chief. He will assume his new position effective Monday, June 9, 2025.
Chief Hillhouse steps into this role with 22 years of experience within the department. A native of Live Oak in Suwanee County, he joined Gainesville Fire Rescue (GFR) in 2003, starting as a noncertified firefighter and rising through the ranks to become Fire Marshal, Assistant Fire Chief and then Deputy Fire Chief. Last November, Chief Hillhouse assumed the role of Interim Fire Chief following the departure of former department leader Joe Dixon.
Chief Hillhouse has held every rank within GFR. He brings a track record of proven leadership, unmatched operational experience, and a recognized reputation for innovation in emergency management and community-focused care. He is uniquely well prepared to oversee the City’s nine fire stations along with the approximately 190 diverse professionals situated within the agency.
Chief Hillhouse earned a Bachelor of Science in Science, Fire and Emergency Services from the University of Florida Rinker School of Construction Management and a master’s degree in Homeland Security from the Naval Postgraduate School.
During his time with GFR, the agency has developed strategies to improve recruitment and firefighting capabilities, focus resources on public health education and gun violence prevention, and support neighbors experiencing homelessness.
- Implemented the firefighters’ new 24/72 schedule and put Gainesville in the spotlight for innovative recruitment techniques
- Assumed oversight of IMPACT GNV, the city’s gun violence prevention initiative, and became an established partner in the Community Gun Violence Prevention Alliance
- Assigned personnel from GFR to assist the unhoused through the Community Resource Paramedicine (CRP) Program
The Human Resources Department conducted the fire chief search process from January 28 through February 28, 2025. Applications were received from candidates in seven states. The department also received applications from two international candidates—one from Canada and one from Pakistan.
“Our search for a new fire chief led to a pool of 27 applicants,” said Gainesville City Manager Cynthia W. Curry. “Eight of those were asked to submit video interviews, and from that group three were selected for in-person interviews. Chief Hillhouse knows this city, its people, and its fire department inside and out. He’s led in every corner of the organization and brings a strong, forward-thinking approach to keeping our community safe.”
A public swearing-in ceremony will be scheduled at a later date.