Office of the Fire Chief

Stephen W. Gollan

Chief Stephen W. Gollan was named Broward County Fire Chief of the Year by the Fire Chiefs' Association of Broward County (FCABC) in Fiscal Year 2026, recognizing his leadership, service, and commitment to the fire service and the communities of Fort Lauderdale and Broward County.

Steve is a 30-year plus veteran of the fire service and has spent the past 20 years serving with Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue in both operational and administrative leadership roles. His career reflects a servant-leadership philosophy centered on supporting firefighters, strengthening public safety, and ensuring that the department remains responsive to the needs of the community.

Chief Gollan advanced through the operational ranks while serving on both the Technical Rescue and Marine Teams. His administrative experience includes service as Assistant Fire Marshal and Public Information Officer, roles that strengthened his focus on prevention, communication, community engagement, and organizational leadership.

Stephen Gollan believes effective leadership begins with service to others. He works to provide firefighters and staff with the training, resources, support, and leadership they need to serve the public safely and effectively. His approach emphasizes accountability, collaboration, professional development, innovation, and a strong connection between the department and the community it serves.

The Broward County Fire Chiefs’ Association previously recognized Chief Gollan as Chief Officer of the Year in 2022. He is also a graduate of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Leadership Fort Lauderdale XXVII Class and holds Chief Fire Officer (CFO) and Public Information Officer professional designations through the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

Chief Gollan earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in marketing from Auburn University and holds numerous fire-service certifications in Florida and Alabama.

A lifelong connection to Fort Lauderdale gives Chief Gollan a personal perspective on the City’s growth, changing needs, and future. Born in Fort Lauderdale at Broward Health, formerly Broward General, he has watched the community evolve and has dedicated much of his career to helping ensure that Fire Rescue evolves with it.

Chief Gollan remains focused on delivering high-quality emergency services, strengthening preparedness, supporting the men and women of Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, and maintaining the public trust. His goal is straightforward: serve the community well, take care of the people who take care of the community, and leave the organization stronger for the next generation.

For Additional Information:

Robert Weiler, Chief of Staff
 Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, Station 2 Headquarters
528 NW 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311
rweiler@fortlauderdale.gov