After 24 years with the Carbondale Fire Department, Jay Crippen has stepped into its top leadership role. 

City Manager Stan Reno appointed Crippen as fire chief effective Feb. 1, 2026. Crippen brings 27 years of fire service experience to the position, including more than two decades serving with Carbondale. 

A lifelong resident and Southern Illinois University Carbondale graduate, Crippen worked his way through nearly every division of the department, from firefighter to shift captain, training officer, emergency management coordinator, arson investigator and assistant fire chief. 

Those years moving through the ranks still shape how he leads, he said. 

“I aim to be clear and direct with expectations while gathering as much information as possible before making decisions,” Crippen said. He added that he believes in standing behind his firefighters. 

In his first year, Crippen said he plans to develop a long-term strategic plan while expanding fire prevention efforts. 

“Carbondale has always been good at fire prevention,” Crippen said, “ response readiness remains a priority.” 

Funding remains one of the department’s biggest challenges, Crippen said. 

“Unlike other city operations, fire departments do not generate revenue,” he said. “City budget support is essential for staffing, training, and equipment.”

Assistant Fire Chief Dylan Fairfield said Crippen’s leadership style reflects the time he has spent working alongside firefighters. 

“Anything he asks you to do is something he is willing to do himself,” Fairfield said. “He leads by example.”

Fire Captain Courtney Looft said Crippen prioritizes communication and remains calm in high-pressure situations.

“He listens,” Looft said. “He wants input before making decisions.” 

With many firefighters out on calls or in training, Crippen introduced two of his team by name and encouraged them to speak about the department. The familiarity in the room reflected years of working side by side.

For those within the department, the promotion signals continuity more than change. 

“He’s been here. He knows the department,” Fairfield said. “That matters.”

Staff Reporter Tay Acree can be reached at [email protected]

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