South Beach Regional Fire Authority (SBRFA) is pleased to welcome Dave Uhler as our new Assistant Chief of Administration. In this role, Chief Uhler will focus on key administrative areas including finance, information technology, planning, and personnel.

Dave brings a unique and well-rounded skill set to the position. His background includes extensive experience in strategy, information management, contract negotiations, facilitation, project and program management, and customer service. Known for his caring and compassionate nature, paired with a practical, no-nonsense approach, Dave is well-positioned to serve our members and community.

Dave joined SBRFA in late 2021. He completed the 2022 Grays Harbor Fire Academy, where he was voted Firefighter of the Academy by his peers, and has since earned his EMT-IV certification and numerous other accreditations. A dedicated lifelong learner, Dave continues to expand his knowledge in fire protection and emergency medicine.

His interest in emergency services began in emergency management as a volunteer with the Seattle Office of Emergency Management, followed by continued service with Mercer Island. After retiring from a 25-year career in management consulting, Dave came upon SBRFA, which was seeking volunteers, and quickly found a home here. Since December 2023, Dave has served as a part-time firefighter. During this time, he was honored as Firefighter of the Year and has received multiple commendations. He also serves as an instructor for both SBRFA and the Grays Harbor Fire Academy.

In his work for the Mercer Island Emergency Manager, Dave was responsible for approximately 700 volunteers. He managed the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), was activated for the property unification program during the Oso landslide, staffed the EOC during multiple storm responses, and coordinated a multi-agency response during two bomb threats to the Jewish Community Center.

Dave, Kendra, and their daughter, Liesl, moved to the South Beach area in 2021. Since then, Dave has been actively involved in the community, contributing to organizations such as the South Beach Firefighter Community Support Foundation, the Ocosta School District Advisory Committee, the Ocosta Booster Club, and the Innovation Studies Program at Pacific Lutheran University.

Dave is excited to bring his energy and passion to SBRFA following his retirement after 20-years at Slalom as Managing Director of Research and Development.