Escondido, CA – Today, City Manager Sean McGlynn announced that Deputy Fire Chief, Tyler Batson has been named Fire Chief for the City of Escondido, after a nationwide search.
“Tyler is an exceptional leader who embodies the values of service, integrity, and professionalism that define the Escondido Fire Department,” said City Manager Sean McGlynn. “After a comprehensive nationwide search, it became clear that Tyler’s experience, leadership, and deep understanding of our community make him the right person to lead the department.”
Chief Batson brings more than two decades of public safety experience and a proven record of leadership, service, and organizational commitment to the role. Throughout his career, Chief Batson has focused on building strong teams, developing the next generation of leaders, and providing exceptional service to the community.
Chief Batson grew up in San Diego’s North County, where he was drawn to sports and any activity that got him in the ocean. He went on to earn his bachelor’s from Stanford University 1993 while playing football. After graduating college, Tyler joined the US Navy where he served for eight years as a member of Naval Special Warfare assigned to SEAL Team Three. Working in challenging and often dangerous environments where teamwork was essential instilled in Tyler the fundamentals of effective leadership and laid a strong foundation for his career in public safety.
He joined the Escondido Fire Department as a Firefighter Paramedic in 2003 and grew his career by serving in every rank including Engineer, Captain, Battalion Chief, Division Chief, and Deputy Fire Chief. Tyler served as Interim Fire Chief for nearly a year before this selection of Fire Chief. Chief Batson shared, “The mission statement of the Escondido Fire Department is to provide legendary service to our community. I am deeply committed to carrying forth this mission and preserving the ongoing excellence of the Escondido Fire Department. Your Fire Department is well positioned to protect the community and expand pathways for greater resilience to regional threats, such as wildfire. As your Fire Chief, serving Escondido and leading a dedicated team of caring professionals is my greatest honor.”
