TRAVERSE CITY — Traverse City Fire Department chief, Jim Tuller, announced on Thursday that he will be retiring on April 24, 2026. Tuller will have served Traverse City for 36 years on April 15, 2026, and 46 total years in fire service.
From joining Traverse City Fire Department as a firefighter in 1990, Tuller worked his way up to fire lieutenant in 2002, became fire inspector in 2003 after a year serving as lieutenant, and in June of 2008 assumed the role of fire chief.
Over the past 17 years, Tuller has been committed to public safety for all residents of Traverse City by providing extensive training for all members of his staff and ensuring firefighters are certified in fire suppression as medical technicians and paramedics.
Chief Tuller was able to raise training standards for the entire department by expanding overall medical emergency capabilities and preparing his team to respond to any situation with professionalism, expertise, and care.
In addition to the improvement Tuller made to training, he had a major role in bringing an Advanced Life Support Transport service to the Traverse City Fire Department.
Currently, the city is in the process of introducing new staff, equipment, and ambulances with the hopes of faster and more reliable city-wide emergency responses. Chief Tuller has been a key contributor in the implementation process, and with the project set to be complete in July 2026, he will have left behind an imprint when it comes to public safety and emergency medical services.
With his role in maintaining community-wide awareness when it comes to fire prevention, Chef Tuller has prioritized the safety of Traverse City residents and implemented programs to raise awareness through school visits, safety demonstrations, and community outreach events.
Chief Tuller’s time serving the people of Traverse City will forever be remembered, and his legacy will continue as the city strives to provide innovative ways to maintain public safety.
