BISMARCK — Matt Clark has been appointed as North Dakota’s State Fire Marshal, Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread announced on Friday, Jan. 9.

Clark most recently served as Fire Chief of the Williston Fire Department for nearly five years. He has been part of the Williston Fire Department since 2015 and has experience in operational leadership, public safety, and collaboration with state and local partners.

“Matt Clark brings 21-years of fire service experience to this role and has been a trusted leader in critical legislative discussions affecting fire and public safety,” Godfread said. “He understands the mission, the people, and the partnerships it takes to strengthen our fire service and protect North Dakota Communities.”

As State Fire Marshal, Clark will oversee fire code enforcement, inspections, investigations, and public education efforts, while working closely with local fire departments, state agencies and elected officials to enhance fire safety and community resilience throughout North Dakota.

Clark has also been recognized for accreditation success, implementation of continuous improvement initiatives, building public-private partnerships and advancing policies that strengthen organizational effectiveness and public safety outcomes.

Clark holds a Doctor of Education in educational leadership from Liberty University, a Master of business administration from Columbia Southern University, and a Master of public administration from American Military University. His extensive professional credentials include Certified Public Manager, Executive Fire Officer through the National Fire Academy, Chief Fire Officer through the Center for Public Safety Excellence, Senior Professional in Human Resourcesand Nationally Registered Paramedic, among numerous fire service and emergency management certifications.