Chattanooga, TN — The Chattanooga Fire Department has announced Terry Knowles as its new Fire Chief, succeeding Chief Phil Hyman, who recently retired. Knowles, a Chattanooga native and graduate of Tyner High School, now takes the helm of the department, overseeing 430 sworn and civilian personnel.
Chief Knowles brings a wealth of experience to the role. Before joining the Chattanooga Fire Department (CFD) in 2005, he spent a decade serving as a sheriff’s deputy in Georgia. He rose steadily through the ranks within the CFD, eventually becoming the District 1 Battalion Chief for the downtown area on Green Shift. In 2022, he was promoted to Assistant Chief over Special Operations, where he managed the department’s specialized rescue units including rescue squads, the Hazmat Team, Urban Search and Rescue (USAR), Swiftwater Rescue, Rapid Intervention Teams, and the Wildland Firefighting Team.
Known for his behind-the-scenes leadership during major emergencies, Knowles has been instrumental in supporting rescue teams and ensuring they are equipped and trained for high-risk situations. His reputation within the department is one of dedication and quiet, effective leadership…