Virginia Beach Fire Chief Announces Appointment for Two New Deputy Chiefs

Virginia Beach Fire Chief Ken Pravetz is pleased to announce the promotion and appointment of two new deputy chiefs, Michael W. Brashear and Eric Wilkerson.

Michael W. Brashear:

Michael Brashear began his fire service career in 1991 as a Fire Explorer for Los Angeles County, creating and solidifying his desire to serve. He was hired by and worked for Roanoke County Fire Department in 2001 and joined the Virginia Beach Fire Department in 2004. Throughout his tenure, he has served in a variety of key roles, including assignments at the Fire Training Center and the Fire Marshal’s Office, where he contributed to special events coordination and emergency management operations.

 He possesses extensive training in technical rescue, hazardous materials, marine operations, and swiftwater rescue. As a member of Virginia Task Force II (FEMA USAR), he has served in multiple capacities, including Task Force Leader, Safety Officer, Rescue Specialist, and currently serves as the Task Force Representative. Notable deployments include Hurricanes Sandy, Irma, Maria, and Helene, as well as the Surfside Condominium collapse in Florida.

 Currently, Brashear oversees the department’s training and special operations bureau and serves as the liaison to the Virginia Beach Department of Emergency Medical Services.

Brashear earned his Emergency Medical Technician certification from Long Beach City College and obtained his paramedic license from Crafton Hills Community College, where he also completed his fire science and fire academy training. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Leadership from Bluefield College and a Master of Public Administration from Liberty University.

Eric Wilkerson:

Eric Wilkerson began his career with the Virginia Beach Fire Department in 1999 and has steadily advanced through the ranks over more than two decades of dedicated service. Throughout his career, he has held key positions across several divisions, including the Human Resources Bureau, Communications and Technology Bureau, and Fire Training Bureau. He currently serves as a Shift Commander in the Operations Branch, where he provides leadership and oversight in critical emergency response operations.

 Wilkerson brings extensive experience in strategic planning, budgeting, payroll administration, workforce development, project management, human capital management, and technology implementation. His diverse background reflects a comprehensive understanding of both the operational and administrative functions essential to a modern fire service.

 He holds a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from James Madison University, a master’s degree in Leadership from Waldorf University, and is a graduate of the prestigious Executive Fire Officer Program at the National Fire Academy.

Their appointments will be effective Oct. 16, 2025.