Maine has a new state fire marshal.
Waterville Fire Chief Shawn Esler will start the job next month.
“Based on the good work we’ve done here in Waterville, I just felt like I was a better fit and could offer value to the fire marshal’s office,” Esler said.
Esler has served the Waterville Fire Department for 16 years, the past six as fire chief. He was also named the Maine Fire Chief of the Year in 2023.
Esler believes his legacy in Waterville is what sets him up for success as state fire marshal.
“The culture here at the Waterville Fire Department, that’s what’s most important to me,” Esler said. “We treat each other like family and when we respond here in the community, we provide that service to the community much like it was our own family members.”
Last summer, the state began investigating complaints of misogyny and a lack of care for fire victims from people within the fire marshal’s office.
Once Esler begins his new role next month, he plans to approach the office with an open mind and conduct his own assessment.
“Getting into the office, listening to what’s going on, learning the environment and making changes as it relates to culture,” Esler said. “The fire marshal’s office hasn’t wavered in its commitment to Maine people as it relates to investigating fires or the fire prevention services that are coming out of the inspection or code enforcement division.”
Esler and city officials in Waterville said he’s left an indelible mark improving public safety and connecting with the community.
“When you look at fire departments across the state, Waterville is extremely progressive. We have implemented a lot of programs here in the city to address the specific needs of our community,” Esler said.
“His leadership is unparalleled. We’re going to miss him,” Waterville City Manager Bryan Kaenrath said. “It’s not just the pride he’s shown for our department here, but it’s now the pride that we feel in seeing him ascend to this office.”
Esler’s last day as fire chief will be Oct. 3.
