Hillory Flowers has been appointed Fire Chief of the Olympia Fire Department, becoming the first woman to lead the organization in its 164-year history.
City Manager Jay Burney announced the appointment during Tuesday’s City Council meeting, describing Flowers as a respected leader across the regional fire service.
“She’s a proven leader and relationship-builder, well respected by the fire community both locally and regionally,” Burney said.
Flowers joined the Olympia Fire Department in April 2025 as assistant chief of EMS before becoming deputy chief of operations. She had been serving as interim chief since March, following the retirement of Chief Matthew Morris.
Before joining OFD, Flowers spent 19 years with Lacey Fire District 3, where her roles included assistant chief of health and safety and interim medical services officer.
Flowers said one of her first priorities will be developing the department’s next generation of firefighters. Around 40 percent of OFD personnel have less than three years of experience, she said.
“Our priority is developing that next generation through strong training, mentorship, meaningful experiences,” Flowers said. “So that they can have the confidence, knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively and take care of our community.”
Olympia Mayor Dontae Payne said the appointment was significant for young women looking to see themselves represented in senior public safety roles.
“It’s so important for our young girls and young women to see someone such as yourself in a leadership role, like being the fire chief,” Payne said.
Flowers said her promotion shows that women can advance through the ranks of the fire service. “Anytime we can create an opportunity for people to see someone like themselves in a role, it creates an opportunity for them to see that they could join the same thing.”
