Chief Hasty

Chief Hasty joined the Tega Cay Fire Department as Fire Chief in April of 2019, bringing with him 37 years of experience in Fire, Rescue, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and Emergency Management, spanning both volunteer and career roles. He has served over three decades in various roles, to include retiring as a Battalion Chief with the Charlotte Fire Department at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Chief Hasty holds an Associate of Science in Fire Protection Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Disaster and Emergency Management from Western Carolina University. In addition to numerous fire certifications, he has earned Fire Officer 3, holds a National Registry Emergency Medical Technician Certification, is a South Carolina Certified Emergency Manager, and serves as Vice-President of the South Carolina Association of Fire Chief’s.

His journey in the fire service began following an impactful encounter with a volunteer firefighter who responded to a fire in his parents’ neighborhood. Three months later, he joined the volunteer fire department’s Junior Firefighter Program. Over the span of his career, he continues to possess a deep love and commitment to emergency services while feverously expanding his knowledge, skills, and abilities. Chief Hasty strongly believes it is vital to the safety and wellbeing of the public to share information and foster a passion for the training and traditions of the fire service. Key initiatives which he has facilitated include developing and implementing a technology plan that facilitated the introduction of new records and data management system, establishing a water rescue program, supported by several grants for its launch and creating/implementing a comprehensive maintenance and replacement plan for all aspects of our organization.

Throughout his career, he has experienced numerous highlights, including the ability to save lives, assist in the arrival of new life, and positively impact the futures of families. He has developed lasting relationships and friendships while enhancing the professional careers and lives of those around him through his mentorship and leadership. Additionally, he continues lead and develop an organization that encourages members and staff to pursue education to enhance their fire service and personal goals.

Several of his greatest personal highlights are his faith, his wife, and his two daughters. A particularly memorable moment was the honor of pinning his youngest daughter when she joined the Indian Land Volunteer Fire Department as a Junior Firefighter. Since, she has progressed to obtain her Firefighter 2 certification and South Carolina EMT status.

Chief Hasty encourages his department to be persistent and focused, while seeking knowledge through training, and to surround themselves with strong leaders and mentors as they provide valuable direction and support. These elements, he feels, are essential for building a successful career and facilitating advancement.