Submitted information:
Dr. Michael Cunningham became the seventh Fire Chief in Cobb County’s history after the Board of Commissioners confirmed his appointment Tuesday. The appointment, recommended by County Manager Dr. Jackie McMorris, followed an extensive search process after the previous Fire Chief’s retirement last year.
Dr. McMorris highlighted Cunningham’s diverse background, noting his leadership in representing Cobb County as a speaker, expert, and facilitator at numerous conferences, as well as his experience as an instructor and author. Cobb’s Public Safety Director echoed the praise.
“I believe we have one of the greatest fire services in the country, and I know you are honored to lead it,” Public Safety Director Michael Register told Cunningham.
“It is a humbling experience and an absolute honor to be standing before you,” Chief Cunningham said moments after the board confirmed his appointment. “To the men and women of this department, I am truly honored to stand alongside you and uphold our tradition of excellence in service to this community. I’m excited about the future.”
Chief Cunningham has served with Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services since 2005, rising through the ranks to Division Chief before becoming Chief of Staff. In this position, he managed the administrative system that guides the daily operations of the Fire Chief and senior command staff. He provided strategic counsel to the Fire Chief and other command staff members and performed oversight, project management, performance management, and policy direction in line with the department’s strategic plan.
An Air Force veteran, Cunningham holds a PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, a Master’s degree in Business Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics, and an Associate’s in Applied Science in Avionic Systems Technology. Additionally, Chief Cunningham holds the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation from the CPSE Commission on Professional Credentialing. He is also a graduate of the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government EXCEL Management Development Program and the 2023 Leadership Cobb program.
Cunningham’s appointment officially begins on February 17. However, Director Register appointed him Interim Fire Chief immediately after the meeting, enabling him to assume his duties right away.
