Following the retirement of Vail Fire & Emergency Services Chief Mark Novak in May, the Town of Vail has narrowed its search for its next fire chief to three highly qualified finalists. A community open house will take place from 5 to 6 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 17 at the Grand View Room on top of the Lionshead parking structure to give residents an opportunity to meet the finalists and learn more about their backgrounds. 

The finalists and their brief biographies are listed in alphabetical order below.  

Mark Dupuis is a 36‑year fire service leader and former Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director for Wells, Maine, where he improved ISO ratings, expanded staffing, modernized apparatus planning, and led ocean rescue operations. A National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer graduate and credentialed chief, he previously served 30 years in Rochester, New Hampshire, commanding major multi‑agency incidents and contributing published research and successful grant acquisition.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ryan Ocepek, Interim Fire Chief for Vail Fire & Emergency Services, brings 27 years of experience with the department, advancing through the operational ranks and previously serving as Deputy Chief and Fire Marshal. He oversees all aspects of VFES, holds degrees in management and fire science, and is a recognized state leader, honored as Colorado Fire Marshal of the Year in 2025 and chair of the Mountain Region of the Colorado Fire Marshals Association. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michael Thomson, Fire Chief for the City of Carrollton, Texas, has 28 years of leadership experience managing large, modern all‑hazards departments. He has driven major organizational improvements in staffing, compensation, facilities, and fleet planning, and previously held chief and command roles in several North Texas cities. He holds advanced fire service executive credentials and remains active in state and national fire service leadership. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The town selected Strategic Government Resources to assist in conducting the extensive search that resulted in a strong candidate pool. The town received 32 applications from candidates in 14 states and 2 countries. A fire chief search committee led by Vail Town Manager Russell Forrest reviewed all applicants and ultimately selected the three finalists. 

For more information, contact Town of Vail Human Resources & Risk Management Director Krista Miller at 970-477-3512.