Mark Mills
Assistant Fire Chief

Assistant Chief Mark E. Mills began his career as a third generation volunteer firefighter in South Carolina.  He was hired by the City of Newberry Fire Department where he worked his way through the ranks for 18 years from firefighter, engineer, lieutenant, captain and shift commander.  During that time he also worked for the South Carolina Fire Academy as an instructor, industrial consultant, and finally as a Regional Instructor Supervisor over seven counties.  He was also the Chief of the Newberry County Hazardous Materials Response Station which provided service to over 600 square miles.  In 2004 he accepted the position of Fire Chief for the Town of Edisto Beach where he remained until he was eligible to retire at which time he accepted the position of Assistant Fire Chief of the Big Bear lake fire Protection District.

Assistant Chief Mills has an Associate Degree in Fire Science, is certified by the California State Board of Fire Services as a Chief Officer, is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program and maintains certifications as a Hazardous Materials Specialist, Fire Inspector and Fire Investigator.  He serves the Fire District’s Operations Chief and Fire Marshal.