Benjamin Matthews
Bolivar,OH
Summary
Dynamic Fire Lieutenant with extensive experience at Akron Fire Department, skilled in incident management and team leadership. Proven ability to enhance firefighter safety through risk management and effective communication. Certified Fire Officer and Paramedic, dedicated to mentoring and fostering professional growth within teams while ensuring compliance with safety standards.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Fire Lieutenant
Akron Fire Department
08.2013 - Current
- Mentored new firefighters, fostering a positive work environment conducive to professional growth and development.
- Established effective communication channels between command staff and frontline responders during high-pressure incidents, ensuring clear directives and information sharing.
- Led team in fighting fires and exercised considerable judgment in deciding best way to extinguish based on type of fuel and environment.
- Assigned firefighters to jobs at strategic locations to facilitate rescue of persons and maximize application of extinguishing agents.
- Compiled and maintained log books, run reports and training records.
- Conducted periodic firefighter written performance evaluations and completed written recommendations on probationary firefighters.
Firefighter Captain
Bolivar Fire Department
12.2011 - Current
- Supervised daily station activities such as equipment checks, facility maintenance tasks, and fitness training routines among crew members.
- Coordinated pre-fire planning sessions to gather vital information about potential risks within the community or specific structures.
- Ensured public safety by conducting building inspections, identifying hazards, and enforcing compliance with fire codes.
- Developed incident action plans to effectively manage resources during complex emergencies.
- Increased firefighter safety by implementing risk management principles into operational guidelines and decision-making processes.
- Collaborated with other agencies for coordinated response during multi-agency incidents, maximizing resource utilization.
Firefighter
Canton Township Fire Department
06.2011 - 10.2012
- Performed life-saving procedures during medical emergencies, administering CPR and first aid as needed.
- Responded to emergency medical calls to perform lifesaving procedures and other emergency medical services.
- Collaborated with fellow firefighters to execute efficient firefighting strategies, mitigating property damage and loss of life.
- Drove and operated structural pumpers, tankers, ladders, and service vehicles to aid in rescue operations.
Firefighter
Air Force
01.2004 - 01.2008
- Operated fire hoses, hydrants and extinguishers to eliminate fire and prevent from spreading.
- Demonstrated strong leadership skills while serving as a mentor to new firefighters, fostering a culture of teamwork and professionalism within the department.
- Maintained optimal readiness for emergency situations by regularly participating in drills and training exercises.
- Improved operational efficiency by helping maintain apparatuses, equipment, and facilities according to established standards.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Fire Science
University of Akron
Akron, OH08.2021
Principles of Emergency Management
University of Akron
Akron, OHLeadership Principles
University of Akron
Akron, OHSize Up And Command On The Fire Ground
Bowling Green State Fire School
Skills
Fire Instructor
Fire Inspector
Live Fire Instructor 1403
Incident Safety Officer
Health and Safety Officer
Fire Officer 1
Fire Officer 2
Paramedic
Firefighter 2
Accomplishments
Air Force Achievement Medal for work done with incidents involved with hurricane Katrina while stationed in Biloxi MS.
Timeline
Fire Lieutenant
Akron Fire Department
08.2013 - Current
Firefighter Captain
Bolivar Fire Department
12.2011 - Current
Firefighter
Canton Township Fire Department
06.2011 - 10.2012
Firefighter
Air Force
01.2004 - 01.2008
Associate of Applied Science - Fire Science
University of Akron
Principles of Emergency Management
University of Akron
Leadership Principles
University of Akron
Size Up And Command On The Fire Ground
Bowling Green State Fire School
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