A New Era Begins for Prince George’s Fire Department
Thelmetria “Meme” Michaelides has been named the new fire chief of Prince George’s County. Her appointment is historic. She is the department’s first Black woman and bomb technician to lead the force. County Executive Aisha Braveboy announced the news at a press conference on Monday.
Michaelides brings decades of experience to the role. She joined the department in 1987 and has served in many positions over 26 years. From dispatcher to paramedic to bomb tech, she’s done it all. Now, she’s taking the top job.
From Dispatcher to Fire Chief
Michaelides began her fire service journey nearly four decades ago. Starting as a dispatcher, she worked her way through the ranks. Her path wasn’t easy, but it was full of determination and hard work.
She later became Maryland’s first African American female bomb technician, breaking new ground for Black women in public safety. Her rise to chief shows what’s possible through focus, service, and staying rooted in the community.
Strong Leadership and a Focus on People
At the press conference, Michaelides made it clear that she doesn’t claim to know everything. “As chief, I won’t have all the solutions,” she said. “But I will empower and challenge command staff, and all men and women of Prince George’s County Fire and EMS Department.”
She also promised to spend her first weeks in office getting to know the department’s current needs. Her goal is to listen, evaluate, and build a team that reflects the strength of the entire community.
Honoring the Past, Leading the Future
Michaelides replaces outgoing Fire Chief Tiffany Green, who will continue serving the county in a new public safety role. Her appointment comes at a time of big change, following other new leadership picks in the county’s police and school systems.
Edward Burroughs, chair of the County Council, praised Michaelides’ story. “From dispatcher to now chief—it’s a beautiful one,” he said. He also joked, “She said she was nervous up here. I find that interesting because she can diffuse a bomb.”
A Community Leader Who Reflects Its Heart
Michaelides has lived in Prince George’s County for 47 years. Her deep connection to the area is part of what makes her appointment so powerful. She’s not just leading a department—she’s leading her neighbors, her friends, and her hometown.
With her historic rise, Thelmetria Michaelides is not only changing the face of fire leadership. She’s also showing Black women and young girls that anything is possible with passion and perseverance.
