​Megan Thiele
IFCA Executive Director
Conference Coordinator
mthiele@indfirechiefs.org
317-856-1850

​Megan’s journey in the fire service began in 2001 after graduating from Purdue University with a B.A. in Communications. On a whim, she enrolled in an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course, which quickly ignited her passion for public safety. She went on to serve as a firefighter/paramedic with Decatur Township Fire Department from 2004 to 2017, taking on additional responsibilities as Risk Mitigation and Public Information Coordinator from 2016 to 2017.
In 2017, Megan transitioned into education and leadership, serving as program director for the EMT and paramedic programs at Ascension St. Vincent, Indianapolis. She later took on the role of field program manager for Districts 4 and 5 at the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office. In May 2022, she returned to Decatur Township Fire Department as Division Chief of Organization Development and External Affairs, where she continued her deep commitment to Community Risk Reduction (CRR). Beyond her leadership roles, Megan holds an M.S. in Threat and Response Management and has earned multiple certifications, including Type III credentialed Planning Section Chief, Type III credentialed Public Information Officer, and Primary Instructor, along with a range of fire and EMS qualifications. She is an active member of Indiana Task Force 1, serving as a Technical Information Specialist. Megan’s involvement with the Indiana Fire Chiefs Association (IFCA) spans several years, during which she has served as Assistant Executive Director and Indiana FEMA SAFER grant coordinator, focusing on volunteer firefighter recruitment and retention. On January 1, 2025, she was honored to be named, Executive Director of IFCA, where she looks forward to leading and supporting its members in advancing the fire service community.