Tom Schmitz began his career in public safety when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1982 and served as a medic until 1986. After his discharge, he worked for North Memorial Medical Center as a paramedic. In 1993, he began to serve the citizens of Edina as a Paramedic/Firefighter. He was promoted to Battalion Chief in charge of Training and Special Operations in 1999. In 2011, he left the City of Edina to serve the community of Eden Prairie as the Assistant Fire Chief in charge of Training and Fire Inspections. He was very excited for the opportunity to return to Edina in February 2014 to serve the community in the position of Fire Chief. He is looking forward to being a part of the leadership team that shapes the future of the City and Department.