Chief of Staff Eddie D. Gauntt Jr.

(334) 625‑2930
egauntt@montgomeryal.gov

Chief Eddie D. Gauntt, Jr. began his career with Montgomery Fire/Rescue in August 1999. Throughout his more than two decades of service, he has gained extensive experience across multiple divisions, including the Suppression Division, Emergency Medical Services Division, Training Division, and the Inspections and Investigations Division. His broad operational background and commitment to professional development have made him a key contributor to the department’s growth and preparedness.

Chief Gauntt holds an associate degree in Drafting and Design, a Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration, a Master’s in Public Administration, and a Doctorate in Public Administration. He has also completed numerous advanced educational programs through the National Fire Academy and the Alabama Fire College. In addition, he is designated as a Chief Fire Officer (CFO) by the Commission on Professional Credentialing (CPC), reflecting his dedication to leadership and professional excellence.

He was promoted to Assistant Fire Chief in February 2018 and appointed as Chief of Operations later that same year. In that role, he directed the daily operations of the Suppression and EMS Divisions, assisted with long‑range departmental planning, oversaw personnel and hiring processes, and led safety initiatives, including management of the department’s Close Call Committee.

On March 13, 2026, Chief Gauntt was appointed Chief of Staff for Montgomery Fire/Rescue. In this executive role, he serves as the Fire Chief’s principal advisor and number two in the chain of command, providing leadership and guidance to the most senior members of the department. His focus includes executive coordination, strategic alignment, and supporting organizational effectiveness across all major divisions.

Chief Gauntt believes that every day is an opportunity for improvement, a philosophy that continues to shape his leadership and his service to the Montgomery community.

Chief Executive Officer Audrey L. Milam

(334) 625‑2228
amilam@montgomeryal.gov

Chief Executive Officer Audrey L. Milam is a 2000 graduate of Wetumpka High School. Chief Milam began his career with Montgomery Fire/Rescue in 2003. Over the years, he has gained extensive experience serving in various capacities, including Fire Suppression, EMS, Inspections, and Investigations.

In pursuit of furthering his expertise, Chief Milam graduated from the Montgomery Police Academy in 2014 and became a certified fire investigator in 2015. His dual qualifications in fire and police services underscore his comprehensive approach to public safety.

Currently, Chief Milam manages Inspections, Investigations, and Training. He continues to serve as the Fire Marshal for Montgomery Fire/Rescue where he is responsible for fire prevention and community risk reduction. His leadership in these roles highlights his commitment to excellence, safety, and community service. Chief Milam's career is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to enhancing fire and rescue operations.

Chief of Operations Craig J. Carr

(334) 625‑2250
ccarr@montgomeryal.gov

Chief of Operations C. J. Carr oversees the delivery of all fire suppression and emergency medical services for Montgomery Fire/Rescue, ensuring that personnel, apparatus, and resources are strategically aligned to meet the needs of the community. In this role, Chief Carr directs day‑to‑day operations while advancing long‑term organizational readiness for a growing and evolving service area.

In addition to operational leadership, Chief Carr continues to serve as Montgomery Fire/Rescue’s accreditation manager, providing oversight for the Compliance Division. This division has been instrumental in securing and maintaining the department’s ISO Class 1 rating, CPSE accreditation through the Center for Public Safety Excellence, and CAAS accreditation for Emergency Medical Services. These achievements place Montgomery Fire/Rescue among an elite group of agencies nationwide.

During Chief Carr’s tenure as Chief of Standards & Compliance, the division strengthened organizational performance through comprehensive community risk assessments, advanced data analytics, and systemwide performance measurement. The division also managed payroll administration and provided full oversight of the department’s Information Technology systems, including software and hardware management, real‑time data reporting, and analytical tools essential for informed decision‑making. Chief Carr additionally directed all social media and digital communications for the department, ensuring public information was accurate, timely, and aligned with organizational values.

Through this combination of operational leadership, strategic planning, and accreditation management, Chief Carr supports Montgomery Fire/Rescue’s mission by promoting accountability, enhancing transparency, and ensuring that the department remains aligned with the highest standards of professionalism and public service.

Chief Carr holds a Master’s Degree in Public Safety and a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Administration. Chief Carr is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program and is designated an Executive Fire Officer by the U.S. Fire Administration. Chief Carr is also credentialed as a Chief Fire Officer through the Commission on Professional Credentialing.