After more than a year serving as interim fire chief, Nathaniel Hartinger has been officially selected chief of the . The announcement follows a competitive, national search.
Hartinger brings a deep connection to the university and the Davis and Yolo County communities. A UC Davis alumnus with dual degrees in communications and sociology, he began as a student firefighter during his undergraduate years and has devoted his entire 25-year fire service career to the campus. He has served in every rank, from firefighter to captain, battalion chief, assistant chief and deputy chief, before assuming the department’s top role on an interim basis in 2024.
Chancellor Gary S. May praised the selection as both well-earned and emblematic of the university’s values.
“Chief Hartinger’s leadership reflects the best of UC Davis – a commitment to service, a collaborative spirit and a deep love for this community,” May said. “His experience and heart are unmatched, and I’m grateful to have someone of his caliber protecting our campus.”
As fire chief, Hartinger oversees all operations of the department, including emergency response, training, community preparedness, administration and mutual aid coordination across the region. His efforts have helped shape UC Davis’ proactive, all-risk fire service model, with nationally recognized programs in mental health response, emergency medical training and interagency collaboration.
He was instrumental in leading the department’s Class 1 rating by the Insurance Services Office, a distinction held by fewer than 1 percent of fire departments nationwide. He also helped establish UC Davis’ , helped launch the mental health response unit and led the department’s participation in the .
Clare Shinnerl, vice chancellor for Finance, Operations and Administration, called Hartinger the “clear and compelling choice” to lead the department into its next chapter. “I’m grateful to the recruitment advisory committee that took the time to review an impressive slate of candidates,” she said.
“Nate has served UC Davis with humility, professionalism and dedication to public safety,” Shinnerl said. “He is a trusted leader with strong partnerships across the university and region, and he brings not only deep operational expertise, but also a human-centered approach that resonates with our values.”
Throughout his career, Hartinger has led teams through wildfire deployments, major campus emergencies and strategic response efforts, including the university’s COVID-19 adaptations. His qualifications span hazardous materials, technical rescue, wildland firefighting and public education, reflecting a lifetime of all-hazard readiness and learning.
But those who know him say what truly defines Hartinger is his commitment to people.
“I’ve had the privilege of raising my family here in Davis,” Hartinger said. “UC Davis isn’t just where I work — it’s where I grew up, where I’ve built relationships and where I’ve committed my life’s work. Serving as fire chief is an honor beyond words.”
Hartinger’s appointment is effective Monday (Aug. 11), and will be formalized at a swearing-in ceremony that evening.