Hickory Fire Battalion Chief Owens retires

Hickory Fire Battalion Chief Wendell Owens is retiring after 30 years of service. He began his firefighting career on August 22, 1994, when he was hired as a firefighter. Owens moved through the ranks and was promoted to Battalion Chief in November 2019.    

Since joining the department, he has obtained his Level II firefighter certification through the North Carolina Fire & Rescue Commission, and in November 2000, became certified as an EMT-Emergency Medical Technician. He also has completed training in Hazardous Materials Operations, Level I Fire Inspector, and is certified as a Level II Fire Service Instructor through the Office of the State Fire Marshal. He also has completed training and is certified as NC Technical Rescuer in the areas of Vehicle Machinery Rescue, Ropes, Confined Space, Trench, Structural Collapse, and Water Rescue. Owens holds a bachelor degree in Industrial Technology through Appalachian State University.  

Wendell and his wife Kelly have two children, Ren and Maggie. He and his family are excited for this new chapter in his life. Owens said, “It has been a pleasure to serve the citizens of Hickory. I wish the City of Hickory and the Hickory Fire Department all the best in the future.”