POLK COUNTY, Fla -- All Black History Month, we have been celebrating Black leaders in our communities. Today, we introduce you to Polk County Fire Rescue's new chief, Dr. Hezedean Smith.

Dr. Smith was sworn in as the 8th fire chief since 1975 and first Black fire chief in the department’s history.

His experience in emergency services is extensive. Originally from Jamaica, he served in the United States Air Force as a medical service specialist from 1988 to 1992. Dr. Smith then worked for the Apopka Fire Department for several years before heading to the Orlando Fire Department, where he stayed for nearly 25 years, retiring as assistant chief.

After that, Dr. Smith spent nearly two years as a fire chief in Charlottesville, Virginia, where among his many accomplishments was the hiring of the most diverse recruiting class in 166 years.

“My goal is to implement similar approaches here with Polk County by ensuring that we address and encourage all members of our community to want to come and work for Polk County fire rescue,” Dr. Smith said.

He was appointed by Polk County Manager William Beasely and approved by the Polk County Board of Commissioners before being sworn in at the grand opening of the department’s Winston Creek Fire Station.