David Woods
Deputy State Fire Marshal
Department of Administrative Services
Office of the State Fire Marshal
The Department of Administrative Services is proud to announce that David Woods has been appointed as the new Deputy State Fire Marshal for the Office of State Fire Marshal.
Until recently, David served as a Fire & Life Safety Supervisor in the Field Services Unit, where his work impacts communities across Connecticut every day. “We are responsible for code development, local Fire Marshal assists, complaints against local Fire Marshals, flame effects review/approval, and fire code modifications,” David explains.
A career firefighter with more than 36 years in the fire service, David retired from the Hartford Fire Department and, as he puts it, “was pursuing another path in the fire service.”
Among his proudest achievements is helping shape the future of public safety. “Being an integral part of new fire code adoption processes and implementing new fire codes that impact every community in Connecticut” is something David considers a highlight of his tenure.
When asked what superpower he would choose, David’s answer reflected his calling in the fire service: “A time traveler who could look back in time and make changes to prevent unnecessary damage or loss.” While he may not possess that power, his work — and that of all our colleagues in the Building and Fire Safety Standards Division — has undoubtedly saved lives, many of whom will never know it.
Outside of work, David values quality time with loved ones. “I enjoy spending time with friends and family at baseball games, hockey games, and especially along the Connecticut shoreline,” he says. He also treasures memorable travel moments, such as visiting Ireland to experience its “landmarks, landscapes, and cultural history.”
When asked about his advice to those considering a career with the State of Connecticut, David offers a simple but meaningful perspective: “Look at the impact you can have to so many different people and communities.”
His inspiration comes from close to home. “My wife, who is a police officer, has always shown integrity, empathy, compassion and resilience at work and at home with our family,” he notes.
Congratulations to David on his new role as Deputy State Fire Marshal—a well-earned recognition of his dedication, leadership, and lifelong service to the people of Connecticut.
