Chief Robert Wright

The First African American Fire Chief of Cincinnati

Robert Wright has always been a man driven to succeed. He was born the second of six children to loving and caring parents. He grew up in Evanston, a mostly African American neighborhood in Cincinnati. Prior to joining the Cincinnati Fire Division in, he was a stock clerk at Cincinnati Milacron. He joined the Fire Division in 1973.

Robert Wright's first assignment after graduating from Recruit Class was in District 5 on the east side of town. He was now working in the community of Evanston where he was reared. He had the responsibility of protecting those nearest and dearest to his heart.

The rest of his career has been a steady rise to the top. In 1981 he took the Lieutenant's exam. Out of 200 plus persons taking the exam, he obtained the highest score- the first for an African-American. In 1985 he successfully scored number five on the test for Fire Captain. Continuing to yearn for more he decided to become a District Chief in 1989. Only a few years later in 1993, he scored sixth on the Assistant Chief exam.

His parents instilled in him that success stems from a burning desire to have not only the best, but be the best in whatever you do. Chief Wright did just that. He scored number one on the highest-ranking test within the Fire Division. In 1998 he was appointed Fire Chief of the CFD. His goals for the Division include creating the best work environment possible for his employees, and continuing our tradition as the best fire department in the nation.

Chief Wright continues to pursue strong career objectives. He is a graduate from the National Association of Fire Protection Executive Fire Officer Program and he currently holds a Bachelor of Fire Science from the University of Cincinnati.

So many times people let their surrounding get the best of them. Instead of staying focused, they let circumstances get in the way-it hinders the greatness so deeply embedded within them. Chief Wright refused to let obstacles stand in his way. His accomplishments stem from setting attainable goals then developing an action plan to achieve each, one a step at a time.

Each time he took and passed an exam he made history. Through all the ranks, he was the first African American to achieve that position. What an honor it is to have someone with such tenacity, drive, and determination representing the brothers and sisters of CAFA.