Mike Hipp Promoted to Deputy Fire Chief
The City of Kentwood has promoted Michael Hipp from fire battalion chief to deputy fire chief.
In his new role, Hipp is responsible for assisting with the planning, coordination and management of the City’s Fire and Rescue functions and staff. Additionally, he will ensure the City maintains a comprehensive fire protection and prevention system, including fire suppression, investigation and prevention education.
“Mike is a very respected leader within the department and has been with us through major growth,” Fire Chief Brent Looman said. “Mike has held many positions throughout the years, making him well-rounded in our services, and has been instrumental in our EMS program and training.
“Mike has proven to be an invaluable asset to our department. I have total confidence he will continue to demonstrate exceptional leadership as he serves the City, the residents and the department in his new role as deputy chief.”
Hipp began service to the City of Kentwood as a firefighter in 1991. He has also served as a fire lieutenant and fire captain. He brings many years of knowledge of the fire and EMS service to the Kentwood Fire Department including four years as a military firefighter.
Throughout his more than 28-year tenure with the Kentwood Fire Department, Hipp has led a number of trainings within the department and has served as director of the EMS division since 1996. He was named the Kentwood Fire Department employee of the year early in his career.
As a United States Air Force veteran, Hipp is a proud member of the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight, which takes veterans to tour many of the memorials in Washington, D.C. for a day of remembrance, reconciliation and honor.
He attended Davenport University for paramedic studies. A married father of four, Hipp has coached lacrosse for 12 years at Forest Hills Northern and currently resides in Grand Rapids Township.