Rohrer was selected for the position from a field of 26 applicants following a three-month search and interview process. He will officially begin his duties on May 9.

The selection committee, comprised of Alderman Patti Abel, Town Manager Summer Woodard, Human Resources Officer Chad Simons and Franklin Fire and Rescue’s member at large Brian Leopard, brought in nine candidates for the first round of interviews. The selection committee narrowed the field down to two candidates, bringing both of them for a meet and greet session with volunteers and career staff at Franklin Fire and Rescue before making a final decision. 

“We are pleased with what Mr. Kevin Rohrer has to offer the Town of Franklin and Franklin Fire and Rescue in particular,” Woodard said. “We believe his experience as a volunteer in Graham and as a Captain with Morrisville Fire and Rescue, along with his education, makes him well suited to lead our combination department into the future. We look forward to having him on board, and we are excited to welcome his family to our beautiful town as well.”

Rohrer began his firefighting career in 1995 as a volunteer firefighter with Graham Fire Department, located in Alamance County. Rohrer’s professional career started in Wake County when he joined Morrisville Fire and Rescue Department in 1999, serving as a firefighter and promoted through the ranks, becoming a Captain in 2008. During his tenure, Rohrer designed and implemented the first firefighter agility-training program in the department and was a mentor to volunteers.  

Rohrer holds an Applied Science degree in accounting from Alamance Community College, a Bachelor of Science degree in fire science administration from Waldorf University and a Master of Arts degree in organizational leadership with a concentration in fire/rescue executive leadership, also from Waldorf University.

Meet Rohrer during a meet and greet scheduled from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 11, at the Franklin Fire Department.