ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – A longtime member of the Ithaca Fire Department (IFD) is being promoted.

On March 31, IFD Chief Michael Moody announced that Assistant Chief Jared Gebel has been promoted to Deputy Chief.

Gebel, who began his 22-year career with IFD as a firefighter, has served in numerous roles, including assistant chief, lieutenant, municipal training officer, and shift commander.

“Jared has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the Ithaca Fire Department,” said Chief Moody. “In his roles as Municipal Training Officer and D Shift Commander, he has shown a commitment to operational excellence, firefighter development, and organizational improvement. His dedication to training and his knowledge of fire department operations make him well-suited for this position.”

Gebel fills the vacancy created by Moody, who previously served in the role before taking over as chief for Rob Covert, who left IFD in October 2025 to become the Deputy State Fire Administrator with the New York State Fire Commission.