Three finalists named for next Frisco fire chief

The City of Frisco announced on November 9, 2026, that it has named three finalists for the position of fire chief following a national recruitment process. Clear Career Professionals, based in Plano, conducted the search, which closed in October and attracted 43 applicants from across the nation.

The three finalists are Christopher Granger, Brent Shanklin, and Les Stephens. Granger currently serves as Division Chief and EMS Chief for Prince William County Fire and Rescue in Virginia. Shanklin is the Assistant Chief of Operations for the Arlington Fire Department in Texas. Stephens is a retired fire chief who most recently served with the San Marcos Fire Department in Texas.

The finalists will participate in a two-day schedule on November 18 and 19 to tour Frisco and meet with city and community leadership. The selection process includes interviews with panels of firefighters, support staff, and chief officers of the Frisco Fire Department, as well as individual interviews with the city management team.

Residents are invited to meet the finalists and provide feedback at a community meet and greet scheduled for Wednesday, November 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. The event will take place at the Grove at Frisco Commons, located at 8300 McKinney Rd.

Wes Pierson, City Manager, stated that the city is seeking a fire chief who shares its values and vision. "Frisco is a special place with a team that takes pride in working together and serving with excellence," Pierson said.

"We’re looking for a fire chief who shares our values and vision, leads with a servant’s heart, and keeps the people of our community at the center of every decision."

Pierson anticipates making a final appointment to the position before the end of the year. Lee Glover retired in August after 35 years with the Frisco Fire Department, having served as fire chief since 2023. William "Clay" Carpenter currently serves as the interim chief of the department.