From teaching firefighters to leading them: Meet Palm Springs’ interim fire chief

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ)- For Palm Springs Interim Fire Chief Jeff Van Lierop, leading the department means working alongside firefighters he once helped train.

Van Lierop brings nearly 25 years with the department to his new role. His appointment follows the retirement of Fire Chief Paul Alvarado.

His interest in firefighting began as a high school fire explorer in Riverside. Now, his priorities include supporting crews while addressing staffing needs and aging stations and equipment.

News Channel 3’s Kiera McKinney spoke with Van Lierop about his path to the job, his family and why investing in people is at the heart of his work.

Stay tuned for the full story tonight at 10 on News Channel 3.