Rotarians, it is my honor to introduce District 5400 District Governor Nominee Designate.
Mr. Stephen (Steve) Gage
District Governor 2024-2025
Steve’s fire service career started as a seasonal firefighter for both the Kern County Fire Department and the US Forest Service. After five seasons, he accepted a full-time appointment with the Kern County Fire Department. He served in every rank within department and held several staff positions. For ten years, he served in several positions on National Incident
Management Teams, including Incident Commander (team leader). In 2002, Steve accepted the position of Fire Chief. Steve retired from the Kern County Fire Department at the end of 2003.
He then took a job with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (OES), Fire and Rescue Branch as the Deputy Chief of Operations. At OES his primary responsibilities were to provide operational oversight for the Mutual Aid System within the state.
When the Forest Service opened a new position as a liaison to FEMA’s National Incident Management System (NIMS) Integration Center, Steve applied for and was appointed to this new position. The position provided a link for the wildland fire community and the other agencies regarding NIMS.
In May 2008, Steve took over the position of Incident Commander for the Boise National Incident Management Organization (NIMO) team. He led the team on incidents and special projects across the west as well as a couple of special projects for the national headquarters.
In October 2012, Steve was appointed to the position of Assistant Director – Operations within FS HQ Fire and Aviation Management stationed at National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, ID. Steve in November 2015 ending his fire service career spanning 46 years.
Steve has been involved in Rotary for almost 20 years, with 4 different clubs in 3 states. He is a member of Boise Sunrise. He served on several committees, been a club secretary, and served twice as club president during his Rotary journey. He is currently serving a District Trainer. He is a Major Donor, member of the Paul Harris Society and the Polio Plus Society.
Steve is married to his wife Kathy and together have three children.
Congratulations Steve!