Lance Selph joins Hastings Fire & Rescue as Assistant Chief of EMS

Hastings Fire & Rescue’s Assistant Chief of EMS comes to the position with nearly 30 years of
experience.

Lance Selph began work as the Assistant Chief of EMS on Feb. 9. He previously worked for the
Fayetteville, Arkansas Fire Department.

Selph has spent 29 years working in both fire suppression and emergency medical services. As
his fire service and EMS careers grew side by side, he had the opportunity to take on leadership
roles in both.

This has given him a well-rounded, practical perspective that he brings to the department.

 “I got into the fire service and EMS because I wanted to help people on what could be the
worst day of their lives,” he said. “Over time, that desire to help expanded into wanting to
make the system better for both the patients we serve and the providers doing the work.”

HFR Chief Troy Vorderstrasse said Selph’s 29 years of progressive fire service leadership across
municipal and volunteer agencies and experience operating as a director of a county EMS
service made Selph an excellent candidate for the Assistant Chief of EMS position.

Selph has supervisory and leadership experience in his past position as Battalion Chief
overseeing 40 personnel.

“His leadership approach focuses on a culture built on integrity, accountability and
improvement,” Vorderstrasse said. “His years of service, leadership abilities, knowledge, and
dedication to the profession make him a valued member of Hastings Fire & Rescue.”
In his role, Selph plans to focus on building a strong, consistent EMS system, supporting
professional development and ensuring Hastings Fire & Rescue continues to deliver high-
quality, patient care. Selph also would like to help the department continue to grow, support
HFR personnel and ensure the department provides the best possible service to the citizens of
Hastings.

“That means strong training, clear expectations and a culture where people are proud of the
work they do,” he said.

Selph joins the HFR administration that also includes Assistant Fire Chief of Fire Operations
Curtis Hensley. Hensley has served in his role since June 2025.

Vorderstrasse said having an assistant chief for both EMS operations and fire operations allows
the department to better focus on those areas of expertise.

“This is translated into more detailed training, specialized training areas, and focus on training
needs of the department,” he said. “Having someone overseeing each discipline ensures they
are able to focus on all aspects within their area of assignment. This is beneficial in making sure
the department and City are meeting all Federal and State requirements.”

Vorderstrasse said both Selph and Hensley are trained and knowledgeable in the fire service as
well as both being certified as a paramedic.

“Even though they each will be responsible for a specific discipline, they are able to work
together to best fit the needs of our department and community,” he said.

Joining Hastings Fire & Rescue was appealing to Selph because of the department’s
commitment to professionalism, community service, and its progressive approach to
emergency services, as well as the chance to serve a community with “truly great and
supportive citizens.”

 He is impressed with the dedication of the HFR personnel.

“The members here care deeply about their community and about doing the job the right way,”
he said. “That kind of culture is something you want to be part of and help strengthen. With a
strong foundation of experience and a continued passion for service, I look forward to making a
positive impact on Hastings Fire & Rescue and the community it serves.”

His family includes wife Misti and their four children.