Roswell has officially named Pabel Troche as its new Fire Chief, cementing his role after leading the department on an interim basis earlier this year.
Troche isn’t new to the city’s fire service—he’s been with the Roswell Fire Department for more than 20 years, moving up through positions including EMS Director, Battalion Chief, and Deputy Chief. Along the way, he’s overseen everything from daily operations to emergency management and firefighter training.
Mayor Kurt Wilson praised the appointment, calling Troche “a proven leader” who blends strategy with compassion. “His commitment to mentoring others, building strong teams, and cultivating trust makes him not just a respected leader but an inspiring one,” Wilson said.
Shaping the Department’s Future
As Interim Chief, Troche managed a $17 million budget and supervised more than 150 employees. He also led several major initiatives, including:
- Transitioning the department to a full-time staffing model.
- Introducing a 48/96 shift schedule to improve work-life balance.
- Expanding safety technology and training.
- Strengthening coordination with neighboring fire departments.
He’s also been a key player in enforcing fire code compliance and piloting new tools through the Qwake Technologies Pioneer Program.
Background and Recognition
Troche holds a Master of Public Administration with a focus on organizational and emergency management leadership. He’s one of only a handful of people in Georgia certified as a State Fire Chief and has earned multiple honors, including being named Roswell Employee of the Year three times.
In a statement, Troche said he’s “honored and humbled” to take on the role. “Together, we will continue to protect life and property, enhance quality of life, and uphold the values of integrity, service, and excellence that define this department.”
What’s Ahead for Roswell Fire
The department currently operates seven stations and responds to more than 10,000 calls each year. Thanks to funding from the city’s 2022 Bond Program, the fire department will soon expand with a new Fire Station 27, a modernized Public Safety Headquarters, and a new E-911 Center.
These projects, city leaders say, will help firefighters respond faster and give them the resources they need to keep up with a growing community.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.
