Spencer Fire Department announces two leadership promotions
SPENCER – Spencer Fire Department has promoted part-time Fire Engineer David Keyser to Deputy Fire Chief and Volunteer Firefighter TJ DeLuca to Assistant Fire Chief. Filling these two positions will allow the department to better serve our community.
David Keyser – Deputy Fire Chief
Deputy Chief David Keyser brings a wealth of operational experience and a strong commitment to training, education, and leadership development. Keyser began his fire service career in 2010 as a volunteer with Leland Fire/Rescue. He later joined the Salisbury Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of Captain, serving with distinction until December 2024.
In addition to his operational experience, Deputy Chief Keyser holds a bachelor’s degree from Fayetteville State University and has completed graduate-level coursework in Training and Development at North Carolina State University. He maintains a wide range of professional certifications, including Firefighter II, Fire Instructor II, Fire Officer II, Technical Rescuer, Swift Water Rescue, Hazardous Materials Technician II, and the full Driver Operator Series, among others.
Keyser is also a published contributor in Firehouse and Fire Engineering magazines, with notable works focused on communication and leadership in the fire service. His promotion reflects his long-standing dedication to operational excellence, firefighter development, and organizational advancement.
TJ DeLuca – Assistant Fire Chief
Assistant Chief TJ DeLuca brings over 35 years of experience to his new role, along with a proven track record of leadership in both volunteer and career fire departments, ranging from small-town operations to large urban agencies.
In recent years, DeLuca has served as a Fire Service Risk Management Consultant, working with fire departments and municipalities across the region to improve operational safety, reduce organizational liability, and promote effective leadership practices. His work focuses on advancing firefighter health and safety, building strong departmental cultures, and supporting accountability at all levels.
Assistant Chief DeLuca holds advanced certifications including Rescue Technician and Hazardous Materials Technician with expertise in chemical, biological, nuclear, and explosive response. He is also certified in North Carolina as a Fire Officer II, Fire Instructor, and Health & Safety Officer.TJ is an authorized Instructor by OSHA to teach General Industry & Construction classes as well as Homeland Security, to teach Initial Response to Terrorist Bombings.
Known for his relatable and engaging teaching style, TJ regularly instructs on emergency operations, tactical decision-making, and risk management. His influence on firefighter education and leadership development continues to leave a lasting impact on the profession.