~ # Colorado Springs Fire Chief Randy Royal to retire in 2027

Colorado Springs Fire Chief Randy Royal will retire March 9, 2027, marking 40 years to the day since he joined the Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD).

Royal, who grew up in Monument, will have served six years as chief and more than two decades in chief officer roles. He began his CSFD career as a paramedic, a role he held for 28 years, and later became a battalion chief in 2005. As a paramedic, he delivered 24 babies, including one named after him.

His work helped advance emergency medical services in the department and beyond. Royal contributed to CSFD's early hazardous materials and tox-medic programs, managed its Medical Division and helped establish Tactical Emergency Medical Services, which places specially trained medical personnel alongside law enforcement during high-risk operations.

He also led the department's Pandemic Task Force and helped develop its Awards and Recognition Committee. As chair of a rebranding committee, he helped create the current CSFD patch, which features "To the Rescue," a phrase dating to the department's earliest history.

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Royal's career included responses to major regional emergencies, including the Blizzard of 1997, the Castle West Apartment Fire in 2007, the Waldo Canyon Fire in 2012 and the Black Forest Fire in 2013.

Under his leadership, CSFD became the first fire department in Colorado to implement a whole-blood program. The department also expanded its use of technology, including drones as first responders and Qwake C-THRU helmet systems, to support patient care, situational awareness and firefighter safety.

Royal has received numerous honors, including two Medals of Distinguished Service and the Firefighter of the Year award. He was named Colorado's George Mazzotti Fire Chief of the Year in 2023 and International Career Fire Chief of the Year by the International Association of Fire Chiefs in 2024.

"I have loved my career and the wonderful men and women that I have been able to work with over the years," Royal said, adding that he is confident the department is "in good hands" as it moves forward.

Mayor Yemi Mobolade praised Royal's leadership and commitment to the community, saying his impact would be felt for generations.

Royal will remain chief until his retirement date. The city plans to begin a national search for his successor on Oct. 1, 2026. The mayor will appoint the next chief, subject to confirmation by City Council.

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