Division Heads & Chiefs
Fire Marshal David Sutherland
David Sutherland, Fire Marshal
David Sutherland is a seasoned professional with over ten years of experience in fire service and fire safety management. Currently serving as the Fire Marshal for the Lakeland Fire Department, David is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of the community through effective fire prevention and education.
David began his career in fire service by completing Fire Standards and an Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) certificate from Hillsborough Community College (HCC) in 2013. His academic pursuits continued with the completion of his Paramedic certificate in 2016, followed by an Associate of Science in Emergency Medical Services at HCC in 2018 and a Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services at the University of Florida in 2023. These educational milestones have equipped David with a strong foundation and a comprehensive understanding of fire safety and emergency management.
A series of progressive roles have marked David's career in the fire department. He started as a Firefighter/EMT (2014-16), then advanced to Firefighter/Paramedic (2016-18). He further honed his skills as a Fire Inspector I (2018-22) and Fire Inspector II (2022-24) before assuming the role of Fire Marshal. In this leadership position, he oversees fire inspections, investigations, and construction plans review, ensuring the safety of the Lakeland community by preventing injuries, deaths, and property damage while improving citizens' quality of life.
David's commitment to continuous improvement is evident in his involvement with professional organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI). He regularly participates in workshops and conferences to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in fire prevention and investigation.
David holds several certifications, including State of Florida: Fire Inspector I & II, Fire Investigator, NFPA: Certified Fire Plans Examiner, and University of Florida: Certificate in Emergency Management. He is a member of the Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association (FFMIA) and the Florida Fire Sprinkler Association (FFSA).
David plans to pursue his NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist certification while concurrently working on his Master's in Disaster Management at the University of Florida. He will also continue to strive for career advancement within his department.
Rescue Chief Damian Motsinger
Damian Motsinger, Rescue Chief
Damian Motsinger is the Lakeland Fire Department's newest rescue chief, dedicated to ensuring community safety through emergency medical services.
Chief Motsinger began his career in the fire service by completing fire standards at Ridge Technical College in 2006. He continued his education by completing both Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic programs at Polk State College, graduating in 2009 with an Associate of Science in Emergency Medical Services.
Chief Motsinger's journey within the department is a testament to his dedication and growth. He started as a Firefighter Paramedic (2008-2017), was then promoted to Lieutenant Paramedic (2017-2021), and finally served as Rescue Captain Paramedic (2021-2024) before stepping into the role of Rescue Chief.
Throughout his career with Lakeland Fire, Chief Motsinger has earned a collection of certifications, including Emergency Vehicle Operations, Fire Service Hydraulics, Fire Pump Operator, Fire Service Aerial Operator, Fire Officer I and II, Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF), and Paramedic certifications. He has also focused on mentorship by earning leadership-based certifications, including Live Fire Instructor, Fire Instructor I, Level A EMS Instructor, CPR Instructor, Advanced Cardiac Life Support Instructor, Prehospital Trauma Life Support Instructor, and Emergency Services Leadership Institute certified. He is an American Heart Association faculty, Polk State College adjunct instructor, Florida Department of Law Enforcement instructor, and National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians Training site coordinator. Chief Motsinger is also a member of the Lakeland Police Department SWAT Medic Team.
Fire Maintenance Supervisor Matt Warner
Matt Warner, Fire Maintenance Chief
Matthew Jay Warner has been with the Lakeland Fire Department (LFD) since February 2002, when he joined the department as a Fire Equipment Mechanic. However, Matt has worked with the City of Lakeland even longer, having previously worked as a mechanic with Fleet Services prior to finding his way to LFD.
Matt is very experienced and equally as educated in his field, holding several technical certifications that include: Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Master Technician, Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) Master Technician, and MSA Care Technician certifications. Matt is also a certified Firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). In addition to his many certifications, Matt has attended the University of Florida, Hillsborough Community College, and Polk State College.
Public Relations & Information Manager Stephanie Lewis
Stephanie Lewis, Public Relations & Information Manager
Stephanie Lewis is a skilled professional in Public Relations and Communications with extensive experience in strategic communications, marketing, and brand-building. She excels at developing and managing comprehensive communications strategies to achieve organizational goals and objectives.
With more than ten years of public relations experience, Stephanie joined the Lakeland Fire Department in June 2021. Prior to joining LFD, she worked for the City of Haines City as the Communication and Marketing Director in the City Manager's Office and the Marketing and Events Supervisor within the Parks & Recreation Department. Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from the University of Florida.
Stephanie is a member of several professional associations, including the Region 4/6 All Hazards Incident Management Team (AHIMT), the Florida Association of Public Information Officers (FAPIO), and Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA), Dick Pope/Polk County Chapter.
She is a graduate of Polk State College's 5G Leadership Program: Corporate and Leadership Development and holds a designation as an Advanced Public Information Officer (APIO) through the FEMA Emergency Management Institute.
Stephanie also volunteers as part of the Gator to Gator Coaching Program with the University of Florida through the College of Journalism and Communications.