Chief Tom Firth

Tom Firth serves as a Division Chief overseeing Fixed Wing Operations within CAL FIRE’s Aviation Program. He is a qualified Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS), Air Tactical Supervisor (AITS), and Helicopter Coordinator (HLCO). With extensive experience in both ground and aerial firefighting operations, he progressed through the ranks from Firefighter to Chief Officer.

Chief Firth spent 10 years in the field as a Helitack Fire Captain before promoting to Battalion Chief and transitioning to Fixed Wing Operations. As an ATGS Battalion Chief, he oversaw operations at both the Hollister and Columbia Air Attack Bases. For the past three years, he has served in CAL FIRE’s Aviation Program as a Division Chief, providing strategic leadership and operational oversight.

A dedicated aviation leader, Chief Firth has contributed to multiple CAL FIRE aviation and training cadres. He serves as a Field Training Officer and Final Evaluator for both ATGS and HLCO and is a registered State Fire Training Instructor. Through his leadership, mentorship, and operational expertise, he remains committed to advancing CAL FIRE Aviation’s mission of rapid, coordinated, and effective wildfire response.