The Lincoln County Fire Protection District is proud to announce the appointment of Curtis VanGaasbeek as its new Fire Chief. Chief VanGaasbeek brings almost 30 years of diverse fire service experience, from volunteer beginnings to leadership at the highest levels.
Chief VanGaasbeek began his fire service career as a volunteer with the Mission Township Volunteer Fire Department in Shawnee County, Kansas. He went on to serve as a Firefighter/Paramedic with the City of St. Louis Fire Department, gaining invaluable experience in one of the nation’s busiest metropolitan fire services. His leadership path continued with the City of Glendale, Missouri, Fire Department, where he advanced to the rank of Fire Chief, followed by his most recent role as Assistant Fire Chief with the Valley Park Fire Protection District.
He holds Bachelor’s Degrees in Fire Service Administration and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership, underscoring his commitment to continual professional development. His leadership philosophy is built on four core pillars: consistency, accountability, adherence to standards, and communication. Throughout his career, Chief VanGaasbeek has been dedicated to strengthening organizational culture, mentoring future leaders, and ensuring operational readiness to meet the needs of the communities he serves.
“I am honored to be selected as Fire Chief of the Lincoln County Fire Protection District,” said VanGaasbeek. “This district has a proud history and a strong foundation. My focus will be to build upon that foundation, to ensure our members have the tools, training, and support they need, and to keep our commitment where it belongs—delivering the highest quality service to the citizens of Lincoln County.”
The Board of Directors welcomes Chief VanGaasbeek and looks forward to his leadership in continuing the District’s mission of protecting lives and property with professionalism, integrity, and service.