Gregory A. Paxton, age 59, was hired by the Columbus Division of Fire in March of 1981. He worked a number of different engine and ladder assignments, as well as paramedic assignments, before being promoted to lieutenant in 1988. He was again promoted in 1991 to captain, to battalion chief in 1994, to deputy chief in 2000, and to assistant chief in 2002. As an assistant chief, he served as the city’s fire marshal, the chief of the training bureau, and as the executive officer - second in command of the Division of Fire.

Chief Paxton is a lifelong citizen of Columbus. He graduated from Bishop Watterson High School in 1971. He received a bachelor’s degree from the Ohio State University in 1975, and a master’s degree from OSU’s School of Public Policy and Management in 1998. He is currently a doctoral student in OSU’s Fisher College of Business. He was a co-author of an article entitled “Aspects of Strategic Change in State Government” which was printed in the Encyclopedia of Public Administration and Public Policy.

The Columbus Division of Fire has presented Chief Paxton with a Distinguished Service Award, two Battalion Chief Commendation Awards, and a Bronze Maltese for Bravery. Chief Paxton is a member of the Charity Newsies, the Shamrock Club, and the Emerald Society. He is a former board member of Alvis House and the Boys and Girls Club. He is currently a board member for the Columbus Urban League.

Chief Paxton becomes the 23rd chief in the 157 year history of the Columbus Division of Fire. Chief Paxton states, “Being part of the long and distinguished history of the Division of Fire is a great honor. I thank Mayor Michael B. Coleman and Safety Director Mitchell J. Brown for the trust that they have placed in me to lead our organization through the difficult financial times that lie ahead. I am committed to the themes of innovation and efficiency as the foundation of improved service at a lesser cost for the citizens of the City of Columbus.”