Wayland Town Crier 3/1/12: New fire chief ready to lead Wayland department. Vincent J. Smith’s dedication to Wayland and its Fire Department made him the clear choice to succeed Fire Chief Bob Loomer, who retired Friday after more than eight years. Smith was promoted from deputy chief and is the first Wayland resident to become the department’s chief in more than 30 years. Smith joined the department in 1978 and rose through the ranks while completing numerous certifications, including chief fire officer management training, fire inspector and emergency medical technician. He grew up in Wayland, graduating from Wayland High in 1973. He earned a bachelor’s degree in fire administration from Empire State College, as well as a master’s degree in public administration from Framingham State University