Chief Jim Davis was responsible for all areas of training and education for the 1,550 firefighters and paramedics in the Columbus Division of Fire. He is a registered nurse with more than 20 years of emergency department, intensive care and mobile intensive care unit experience, including 20 years as a flight RN/EMT with Medflight of Ohio.
Davis holds a master’s degree in operational excellence and process improvement from Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business and a doctorate in adult learning theory from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education Chief Learning Officer program.
He has said the FWFD will approach every encounter with two main principles: Affording every member of the organization the best opportunity to go home safe at the end of their shift, and seeking additional opportunities to engage and be involved with the community by always asking, “why not?”
Davis’ appointment follows an extensive search that included several opportunities for public engagement. Davis replaces Rudy Jackson, who retired after more than 10 years in the position.
He was sworn in Oct. 16, 2018.
Assistant Chief of Educational and Logistical Services
Assistant Chief Hill has been with the FWFD for 27 years. He is responsible for managing Recruit Training, In-Service Training, the Office of Emergency Management, Personal Protective Equipment and Supply, some aspects of Facility Maintenance, Fire Apparatus and Vehicle Services, Personnel Health & Wellness, the Fire Alarm Office and the SCBA (Air) Shop.
Rauscher was previously the Interagency Transportation Administrator for the City of Dallas overseeing the development and construction of various transportation projects. He brings a great deal of multi-faceted experience to the Fire Department as well as a federal, regional, and local perspective on planning, policy and financial issues. He has more than 18 years of public sector experience.
Rauscher previously served in positions with the U.S. Census Bureau, North Central Texas Council of Governments, Dallas Area Rapid Transit and the City of Fort Worth. These previous positions allowed him to gain experience in collaborating with multiple stakeholders, elected officials, other public agencies, neighborhood associations and the general public.