07/30/2026
A big shout out to one of our own carrying on the tradition of a Local 15 brother being appointed Chief of the Council Bluffs Fire Department. Robert Schoening has been an involved member of Local 15, currently serving as Vice President.
We know Rob will continue the positive relationship between the fire department administration and Local 15 which makes the Council Bluffs Fire Department the outstanding organization that it is.
Mayor Jill Shudak Announces Robert Schoening as New Fire Chief of the Council Bluffs Fire Department
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Mayor Jill Shudak is pleased to announce the appointment of Robert Schoening as the next Chief of the Council Bluffs Fire Department following a comprehensive national search and selection process.
A proud product of the Council Bluffs Fire Department, Chief Schoening has dedicated more than 20 years to serving the residents of Council Bluffs. Since joining the department in 2002, he has risen through the ranks as a firefighter, paramedic, driver/operator, Training Coordinator, Captain, and Acting Assistant Chief. Throughout his career, he has earned a reputation as a respected leader committed to developing firefighters, strengthening emergency response, and serving the community with integrity.
"After an extensive search and a highly competitive selection process, I am confident that Robert Schoening is the right leader to guide our Fire Department into the future," said Mayor Jill Shudak. "Chief Schoening's career reflects a deep commitment to our community, our firefighters, and the profession. Having grown within this department, he understands our culture, our values, and the high standard of service our residents expect. His leadership, experience, and vision made him the clear choice to lead the Council Bluffs Fire Department into its next chapter."
In addition to his operational leadership, Chief Schoening has played a significant role in training and mentoring firefighters throughout his career. He has led recruit academies, company officer development, and continuing education programs while also serving as a Tactical Medic Team Leader supporting regional law enforcement operations. His background also includes military service in the Iowa Air National Guard and United States Army, where he served in senior enlisted leadership roles focused on mentoring, readiness, and organizational development.
Chief Schoening holds a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies from Bellevue University, associate degrees in Fire Science and Biology, and is a licensed paramedic. His commitment to professional development and lifelong learning has prepared him to lead one of Iowa's premier fire departments.
As Fire Chief, Schoening will oversee departmental operations, emergency response, strategic planning, personnel development, and community engagement while continuing the department's tradition of excellence and commitment to exceptional service.
"I want to thank the members of the interview panel, the Civil Service Commission, city staff, and everyone who participated in this process," Mayor Shudak said. "Their professionalism and thoughtful evaluation ensured we selected an outstanding leader for this important position."
Mayor Shudak also expressed her appreciation to the department's leadership team for guiding the organization throughout the transition.
"I also want to recognize Acting Chief James Wood and Acting Chief Rich Rodenwald for their outstanding leadership during this transition. Chief Wood provided steady guidance during the early months of the search, and Acting Chief Rodenwald continued that leadership through its completion. Their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to the department ensured the Council Bluffs Fire Department continued to provide exceptional service to our community. I am sincerely grateful to both of them for stepping forward when our city needed them most."
Chief Schoening's appointment reflects the City's continued investment in providing exceptional public safety services while supporting the men and women of the Council Bluffs Fire Department.
"The Council Bluffs Fire Department has built an outstanding reputation because of the dedicated men and women who serve our community every day," Mayor Shudak added. "I am excited to work alongside Chief Schoening as he builds on that strong foundation, invests in our firefighters and paramedics, and leads the department into its next generation of service."
Chief Schoening's swearing-in ceremony will be announced at a later date
