Left, Stevens Point Fire Chief Tracey Kujawa and Assistant Chief Bob Finn. (City-Times photo)

City-Times Staff

The City of Wausau today announced Stevens Point Fire Chief Tracey Kujawa has been hired as its new fire chief.

Kujawa has been interviewing for the position for several weeks. Her final interview was last Thursday.

According to the press release, Kujawa was chosen from a nationwide pool of candidates. She became a finalist for the spot on April 13.

Kujawa has been with the SPFD for 22 years and chief for 2 1/2.

“I think it’s just a change, a good career move,” Kujawa said. “You’re always looking for advancement and to be able to apply your abilities, and Wausau is a perfect place. It keeps me in Central Wisconsin, and it’s a department that’s progressive. I think they have a good team up there.”

Kujawa said the first time she was invited to reply, she didn’t even consider it.

“I deleted the email at first,” she said. “As I thought about it more and more, I’ve been here 22 years; if there was an opportunity available I’d be negligent in my personal goals if I didn’t go about taking steps to apply and go through the process.”

The move will put Kujawa in command of about 60 employees and a $6 million budget. She replaces former Chief Gary Buchberger, who retired.

Kujawa is tentatively expected to begin her new job in Wausau on May 12.