City of Corpus Christi

CORPUS CHRISTI (News Release) – Corpus Christi City Manager Peter Zanoni announced the selection of Brandon Wade as the new Chief of the Corpus Christi Fire Department. Chief Wade is an Assistant Fire Chief for the City of Austin. He will replace Robert Rocha, who retired from the position in January.

The City conducted a nationwide search for a replacement with the help of Emergency Services Consulting International, a national leader in Fire, EMS, and Law Enforcement consulting with over 40 years of experience. Four finalists for the position underwent an extensive interview process last week.

Chief Wade started as a firefighter with the Austin Fire Department in 1998. Throughout his 24-year career with the Austin Fire Department, Chief Wade has held every rank in the Fire Department and has overseen multiple aspects of the department. These include firefighter operations, medical operations, wildfire and airport operations, communications and dispatch, recruiting, and facilities and fleet logistics. Chief Wade also oversaw the department's special operations, which included hazardous materials, technical rescue, and water rescue.

Chief Wade was also responsible for the strategic planning and fiscal management of a $145 million operating budget. He directed a fire division that included more than 900 uniformed personnel who served on 73 fire response units at 51 fire stations across the City of Austin.

“Chief Wade’s expertise in technical operations is certain. What our team members and the community will soon see is his excitement and commitment to caring for our firefighters and our great community,” City Manager Peter Zanoni said.

State law requires the City Council to confirm this appointment. The Council will consider the confirmation at Tuesday’s regularly scheduled meeting.