Phoenix suburb announces first female fire chief in city’s history

PHOENIX — A Phoenix suburb announced Thursday that Interim Chief Mary Cameli would take over the fire department, the first woman to do so in the city’s history.

At a press conference, the Mesa Fire and Medical Department made Cameli’s hiring official. She took over the department in October when former Chief Harry Beck retired.

“[Cameli] has shown tremendous leadership ability, not only in her short time as interim chief, but in numerous assignments with the (Mesa) Fire and Medical Department,” City Manager Chris Brady said. “She has well-established relationships with the rank and file members, other city departments and community groups and is dedicated to our mission to serve the community.”

Cameli has been with the department for 33 years and was one of the first female firefighters hired by the city.

She worked her way through the ranks and served as assistant chief before moving into the interim chief role.

“I am extremely honored to have been selected as chief and I am very grateful to those who have given me this opportunity,” Cameli said. “It is a privilege to be chosen to lead the exceptional men and women of the Mesa Fire and Medical Department.”

Cameli earned her bachelor’s degree at Southern Utah University and her master’s degree from the University of Phoenix.

Cameli’s husband, Mike, is a retired Tempe firefighter and her brother, Gil Damiani, is a retired Mesa assistance fire chief.

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