Valdosta Fire Department Lieutenant Dereck Willis Elected Second Vice President of Georgia Fire Investigators Association

The Valdosta Fire Department is proud to announce that Lieutenant Dereck Willis was sworn in on July 29, 2026, as Second Vice President of the Georgia Fire Investigators Association (GFIA) Board of Directors during the Southeastern Arson Training Conference (SEATC) in Savannah, Georgia.

Lieutenant Willis' appointment reflects his extensive experience, proven leadership, and longstanding commitment to excellence in fire investigation, fire prevention, and public safety.

The Georgia Fire Investigators Association, the eighth chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI), was chartered on April 21, 1964, and has grown into the largest fire investigation training organization in the State of Georgia. The Association is comprised of professionals from the fire service, law enforcement, insurance industry, engineering, and private sector who are dedicated to determining the origin and cause of fires through education, collaboration, and professional development.

The GFIA is governed by a Board of Directors and Officers elected annually by its membership during the Southeastern Arson Training Conference. The Board provides leadership and oversees the business of the Association in accordance with its Constitution and Bylaws while advancing its mission of promoting fire investigation, arson prevention, and the exchange of technical knowledge among fire investigation professionals throughout Georgia.

As Second Vice President, Lieutenant Willis will help guide the Association in achieving these objectives while supporting the continued growth and success of the organization. His leadership and expertise will serve as valuable assets to both the GFIA and the fire investigation community across the state.

Lieutenant Willis has previously served the Georgia Fire Investigators Association in several leadership roles on its Board of Directors, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to advancing the fire investigation profession through service, education, and collaboration.

"Lieutenant Willis has consistently demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our community," said Fire Chief Marcus Haynes. "His election as Second Vice President of the Georgia Fire Investigators Association is a testament to the respect he has earned among his peers across the state. We are incredibly proud to see one of our own serving in this important leadership role, and we know his knowledge, experience, and passion for the fire service will make a lasting impact on the Association and the profession as a whole."

The Valdosta Fire Department is honored to have Lieutenant Willis represent the department at the state level and congratulates him on this well-deserved appointment. His continued service reflects the department's commitment to professional excellence, leadership, and advancing the highest standards in fire investigation and public safety.