The City of Gastonia announced that Deputy Chief Brad Best has been promoted and will serve as its next Fire Chief when Chief Phil Welch retires on May 1, 2026.
Chief Best is a dedicated public safety leader with over three decades of experience in the fire service, currently serving as the Deputy Fire Chief for the City. His career began as a volunteer firefighter with South Gastonia Fire Department and as a firefighter with the City of Hickory Fire Department. Chief Best has previously served as Firefighter, Captain, Battalion Chief, and Assistant Chief within the City of Gastonia Fire Department. Additionally, he is currently a member with Agriculture Center Fire Department.
“I am honored to have been chosen to serve as Fire Chief in the community that helped shape who I am today. Having grown up here this role is deeply personal to me,” said Chief Best. “I’ve seen firsthand the dedication of our firefighters and the strength of this community, and I look forward to continuing our mission to protect and serve with pride.”
Chief Phil Welch announced his retirement in December 2025 and has served as Fire Chief for the City of Gastonia Fire Department since March 2009.
“It has been an honor to serve this community, and having worked so closely with Chief Best, I know he will do an exceptional job guiding this department into the future,” said Chief Welch.
Chief Best holds a Master of Arts in Fire/Executive Leadership from Waldorf University and a Bachelor of Science in Fire Safety Engineering Technology from UNCC. He is also a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
Chief Best has multiple degrees in Public Safety Administration and Fire Protection Technology from Gaston College, and he is a graduate of Hunter Huss High School, where he earned Eagle Scout. He is a proud board member with the Piedmont Chapter of the American Red Cross.
Chief Best is married to Mandy Best, a first-grade teacher with Lincoln County Schools. He has three children: Kelsey, Kailey, and Avie. Chief Best and his family are members of Anthony Grove Baptist Church. He enjoys spending time with his family and going to the beach.
Chief Best will assume his new role on May 1, 2026.