Nathaniel Hartinger has been named chief of the UC Davis Fire Department after serving as interim chief for more than a year. The decision comes after a national search to fill the position.
Hartinger is an alumnus of UC Davis, holding degrees in communications and sociology. He began his fire service career as a student firefighter while attending the university and has worked at every level within the department over his 25-year tenure, including roles as firefighter, captain, battalion chief, assistant chief, and deputy chief before stepping into the interim chief role in 2024.
Chancellor Gary S. May commented on Hartinger’s appointment: “Chief Hartinger’s leadership reflects the best of UC Davis – a commitment to service, a collaborative spirit and a deep love for this community. His experience and heart are unmatched, and I’m grateful to have someone of his caliber protecting our campus.”
As fire chief, Hartinger will manage all aspects of department operations such as emergency response, training programs, community preparedness efforts, administration tasks, and mutual aid coordination with other agencies in the region. Under his guidance, UC Davis’ fire service model has gained recognition for its mental health response initiatives, emergency medical training programs, and interagency partnerships.
Hartinger played a key role in earning the department’s Class 1 rating from the Insurance Services Office—a distinction achieved by less than one percent of fire departments nationwide. He also contributed to launching UC Davis’ EMT certification program and establishing specialized units like Health 34 for mental health response.
Clare Shinnerl, vice chancellor for Finance, Operations and Administration at UC Davis said: “I’m grateful to the recruitment advisory committee that took the time to review an impressive slate of candidates.” She added: “Nate has served UC Davis with humility, professionalism and dedication to public safety. 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 at UC Davis Fire Department, Hartinger has overseen teams during wildfire deployments and major emergencies on campus—including strategic responses during COVID-19—and holds qualifications in hazardous materials management, technical rescue operations, wildland firefighting techniques and public education outreach.
Reflecting on his appointment Hartinger said: “I’ve had the privilege of raising my family here in Davis. 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 will officially assume his new position on August 11 at a swearing-in ceremony that evening.
