City of Alcoa Fire - Rescue Chief, Roger Robinson, announced today the promotion of Captain Jim Whaley to Deputy Fire - Rescue Chief. Whaley began his career with the City of Alcoa on June 30, 1979 as a firefighter. He rose through the ranks being promoted to engineer/driver in January 1994, lieutenant in September 1999, and captain in November 2003.

Whaley, a graduate of Alcoa High School, has completed extended course hours from Walter State Community College. He has received certifications in the following fire related areas: Firefighter I, II, III; Fire Instructor I, Pump Operations I, II, III; Fire Officer I, II, III, IV, Fire Safety Officer, Emergency Medical Technician (EMS); Hazardous Materials Technician and Vehicle Extrication. Whaley is a Tennessee State Certified Fire Inspector. He has completed courses at Texas A&M University in industrial firefighting. Most recently he has received instructor certifications in National Incident Management System courses.

Whaley’s new responsibilities will include supervisory and administrative work in assisting the fire - rescue chief to plan, organize, and direct all activities of the Fire - Rescue Department.

Whaley currently is vice president of the Tennessee Fireman’s Association and will assume the office of president in June.