November 19, 2024
For immediate release, w/photo
Aaron Cook named new Independence Fire/EMS Chief
Independence City Manager Kelly Passauer has announced the appointment of Aaron Cook as the City’s new Chief of Fire/EMS, effective December 1, 2024.
Cook currently serves as a Fire Captain/Paramedic with the department and brings more than 22 years of experience in firefighting and emergency medical services to the role. Cook will assume the position of Chief Shawn Wallis, who will retire in December after leading the department for the past eight years and accumulating more than 25 years of service with the City’s emergency services throughout his career.
“I am exceedingly proud to announce we have promoted another one of our own to a significant leadership role within the organization,” Kelly said. “Aaron has big boots to fill as he succeeds Chief Wallis, who is an exceptional, selfless leader. But with a wealth of technical expertise, a high level of respect from peers and a heart for our community, I am confident Aaron is ready and up for the challenge.”
Cook rejoined the City’s Fire/EMS service in 2023 as a captain/paramedic after previously serving five years as Fire Lieutenant/Paramedic. In his off hours, he also is currently employed as an Emergency Room nurse at Labette Health’s Independence Health Care Center. He also was previously employed with the Cherryvale Fire/EMS department.
He is a two-time recipient of the “Paramedic of the Year” award with the Independence department and also has received multiple lifesaving awards with both the Independence and Cherryvale agencies. With Independence Fire/EMS, Cook has been involved in community outreach programs to promote fire safety, and he has assumed leadership roles in efforts to enhance inter-departmental communications, operational efficiency, safety and maintenance protocols.
Cook obtained his paramedic license from Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, Missouri, and an associate’s degree in nursing from Coffeyville Community College, where he was ranked in the top 10% of his class and served as class president. He also is a 2024 graduate of Leadership Independence.
“I am dedicated to providing quality customer service, top-notch emergency response and excellent medical care to our citizens,” Cook said. “I value clear communication and collaboration, and I am very excited to put my skills and experience to work in the chief’s role.”
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