Fire Marshal Stephan Noel
Bureau of Fire Investigation
1. Please introduce yourself—your name, your title and the year you joined the FDNY.
My name is Stephan Noel. I joined the FDNY in 2019 as a firefighter, and in 2025, I advanced into an investigative role as a fire marshal (police officer) with the Bureau of Fire Investigation, continuing my commitment to life safety and public service.
2. Where are you currently assigned, and what are your main responsibilities?
I’m assigned to the Bureau of Fire Investigation, Citywide South, where my primary responsibility is to determine the origin and cause of fires and explosions throughout New York City. My duties include scene examinations, evidence collection, witness interviews and report preparation for potential criminal prosecutions. I also execute search warrants, conduct digital evidence recovery and collaborate with local, state and federal agencies to ensure that every fire-related incident is investigated with accuracy and integrity.
3. What inspired you to choose a life of public service with the FDNY?
Service has been the foundation of my entire career. From my time in the U.S. Marine Corps to serving as a police officer with the NYPD and later as a firefighter, I’ve always been drawn to work that protects others. The FDNY represents the highest standard of courage and teamwork, and becoming part of this department gave me the opportunity to serve my community while continuing to challenge myself in both operational and investigative capacities.
4. Can you share one of your most memorable moments on the job?
One of my most memorable moments came during my very first multiple-alarm fire as a probationary firefighter. The call came in late, and by the time we arrived, heavy fire was already showing from multiple windows. As we advanced the line toward the building, a victim suddenly jumped from the third-floor window—coming so close that they almost landed on me and my backup firefighter. It was a shocking reminder of how unpredictable and dangerous this job can be, especially when lives are on the line. Inside, the conditions were extreme. The heat was tremendous, visibility was low and the fire was moving fast. As I knocked down flames in front of me, the fire began to lap behind us, rolling overhead and wrapping around from the side. I had to quickly pass the line back to my backup firefighter so he could hit the fire coming at us and keep it from cutting off our position. That moment taught me more than any classroom could about situational awareness, communication and trust. In those few minutes, I understood what it truly means to depend on your team—to stay calm, adapt and protect each other no matter how bad it gets. It’s an experience I’ll never forget, and it continues to shape the way I approach every fire to this day.
5. When you hear the words “We Are FDNY,” what does that mean to you?
To me, “We Are FDNY” means unity, professionalism and pride in service. It reflects every division and every member—firefighters, fire marshals, EMS and civilians—all working toward one mission: protecting the people of New York City. It’s about standing together as one family, no matter the uniform or assignment, to uphold the values of courage, integrity and compassion.
6. What would you say is your “superpower”—a strength or skill you bring to your work?
My “superpower” is my ability to stay composed and analytical under pressure. Whether responding to an active fire scene, conducting a detailed investigation or testifying in court, I remain focused on the facts and the mission. My background in the military, law enforcement and fire service has trained me to assess situations quickly, make sound decisions and lead by example when every second counts.
7. How does your role help advance the FDNY’s mission of public safety?
My work as a fire marshal directly supports the FDNY’s mission by identifying the causes of fires and holding those responsible accountable. Every investigation not only brings justice, but also helps prevent future incidents through education, data analysis and fire prevention efforts. By uncovering the “why” behind every fire, we strengthen public safety, improve operational readiness and continue the FDNY’s legacy of protecting life and property across New York City.