Bruce Shearer
Albion,PA
Summary
Adept at leading high-stakes emergency operations, I significantly enhanced team efficiency and public safety during my tenure at Albion Volunteer Fire Department. Leveraging skills in Firefighting Operations and Team Collaboration, I established vital interagency coordination and improved incident response times. My strategic focus on continuous improvement and staff development resulted in a notable increase in departmental performance and community trust. Experienced Fire Chief offering extensive list of successes building and leading talented teams in training, drills and high-danger emergency events. Highly committed to safety and continuous provision of quality emergency response. Equipped with strong background overseeing group efforts across diverse facilities ranging in size and complexity. Seasoned Firefighter with [Number] years of experience and extensive training in emergency response operations. Committed to building and leading efforts of talented teams of up to [Number] first responders. Skilled in enforcing municipal fire codes via inspections, covering testing of alarm and protection systems. Dedicated firefighting professional with great leadership, planning and scene management abilities. Talented in keeping crew members at peak performance with continuous training and expert motivational talents. Ready for any challenge and certified in multiple areas. Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Fire Chief
Albion Volunteer Fire Department
01.2021 - Current
- Oversaw proper implementation of best practices, policies and procedures in alignment with regulations and operational needs.
- Managed department budget effectively, prioritizing essential equipment purchases and maintenance without compromising safety standards.
- Established strong relationships with local government officials to secure necessary funding and resources for the department''s needs.
- Supervised incident command operations, ensuring proper coordination among on-scene personnel and effective communication with external agencies.
- Optimized fire services management with introduction of new systems, policies, procedures and tools.
- Updated standard operating procedures to reflect advancements in firefighting technology and best practices.
- Strengthened interdepartmental communication through regular meetings, improving collaboration on projects involving multiple divisions.
- Successfully led large-scale emergency exercises, testing the readiness of personnel under high-pressure scenarios and identifying gaps in response capabilities.
- Promoted public trust in the department by maintaining transparency in operations, addressing concerns from community members, and ensuring accountability among staff members at all levels.
- Enhanced firefighting strategies for better efficiency in extinguishing fires and reducing property damage.
- Collaborated with neighboring departments for seamless interoperability during large-scale emergencies or natural disasters.
- Assessed department performance through detailed analysis of incident reports, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions when needed.
- Established a mentoring program for newer firefighters that increased their skills development rate significantly.
- Implemented community outreach initiatives to promote fire safety awareness and prevent potential hazards.
- Improved emergency response times by implementing new dispatch procedures and optimizing resource allocation.
- Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds, and stations for proper order and condition.
- Supervised firehouse operations, maintaining inventory and liaising with vendors to secure necessary supplies.
- Conducted thorough investigations into fire incidents, working closely with law enforcement agencies to determine causes and identify responsible parties when necessary.
- Assessed scenes, coordinated responses and communicated critical details to superiors through two-way radios.
- Assigned firefighters to jobs at strategic locations to facilitate rescue of persons and maximize application of extinguishing agents.
Paramedic
East Erie County Ems
08.2018 - Current
- Delivered advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), basic life support (BLS), and pediatric advanced life support (PALS) under pressure.
- Delivered compassionate care to patients with a variety of medical emergencies, including cardiac arrests, traumas, strokes, and respiratory distress.
- Improved patient outcomes by providing timely and accurate assessments, treatments, and interventions.
- Worked en-route to hospital to prepare patients for arrival or surgery and control wounds.
- Documented patient care accurately using electronic medical records software according to regulatory guidelines for billing purposes and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
- Developed and maintained rapport with coworkers and local hospital staff to facilitate efficient patient care.
- Enhanced team efficiency through clear communication and collaboration during high-pressure emergency situations.
- Transferred patients safely and securely to medical facilities for continued care.
- Assessed patient condition through physical and verbal exams and by collecting information from others at scene.
- Assisted in training new paramedics by serving as a preceptor and sharing clinical expertise during ridealongs.
- Triaged injuries by communicating with patients, bystanders and family members and identified appropriate medical facility for transport.
Paramedic
Perry Hiway Hose Company
10.2016 - 08.2018
- 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.
- 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.
- Utilized technical expertise in operating specialized firefighting equipment such as aerial ladders, hydraulic extrication tools, and thermal imaging cameras.
- Documented emergency calls and equipment maintenance to enable tracking history and maintain accurate records.
- Evaluated situation at emergency sites to determine and execute most effective methods for saving life and property.
- Contributed to positive outcomes during multi-agency responses by effectively collaborating with law enforcement personnel, paramedics, and other emergency service providers.
- Educated the local community on fire safety practices through presentations at schools, businesses, and other public venues.
- Collaborated with other emergency responders on scene to establish adequate fire suppression.
- Assisted in the containment of hazardous materials spills, ensuring public safety and environmental protection.
- Conducted search and rescue operations during natural disasters, locating trapped individuals and providing assistance as needed.
- Monitored and responded to hazardous gas levels and smoke detectors to avoid injuries and fatalities.
- Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds, and stations for proper order and condition.
- Responded to emergency calls and provided medical assistance to injured individuals.
- Operated hoses, pumps, ladders and other firefighting equipment.
- Laid and connected hoses, held nozzles and directed water streams as part of fire suppression activities at active scenes.
Paramedic
West County Paramedic Association
03.2015 - 10.2016
- Delivered advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), basic life support (BLS), and pediatric advanced life support (PALS) under pressure.
- Delivered compassionate care to patients with a variety of medical emergencies, including cardiac arrests, traumas, strokes, and respiratory distress.
- Improved patient outcomes by providing timely and accurate assessments, treatments, and interventions.
- Worked en-route to hospital to prepare patients for arrival or surgery and control wounds.
- Developed and maintained rapport with coworkers and local hospital staff to facilitate efficient patient care.
- Enhanced team efficiency through clear communication and collaboration during high-pressure emergency situations.
- Transferred patients safely and securely to medical facilities for continued care.
- Identified appropriate medications based on potential interactions with other medicines, accurately calculating correct dosages according to drugs on hand and patient's weight.
- Triaged injuries by communicating with patients, bystanders and family members and identified appropriate medical facility for transport.
- Assisted in training new paramedics by serving as a preceptor and sharing clinical expertise during ridealongs.
- Coordinated with other emergency services personnel such as police officers and firefighters during complex incidents for optimal scene management and resource allocation.
- Evaluated patient vital signs and status to determine care needs using pulse oximeters and electronic vital sign machines.
- Administered fluid replacement via IV, IO, and IM to replace fluid volumes and correct electrolyte imbalances.
- Administered continuous 12-lead electrocardiogram monitoring to record heart rhythms in patients with acute coronary syndrome.
- Performed intubations to secure airway in patients under respiratory and cardiac arrest.
- Restocked ambulance with proper equipment such as vents, ET tubes, medication, and IV pump tubing to maintain optimum inventory.
- Maintained patient care, treatment and medication documentation for accurate, up-to-date clinical records.
- Trained new paramedics on proper procedures and protocols to maintain best practices and promote great patient care.
Paramedic Supervisor
Mcgonigle Ambulance
02.2005 - 03.2015
- Addressed any performance or disciplinary issues within the team promptly and fairly, ensuring a positive work environment for all staff members.
- Increased patient survival rates through rigorous training of paramedic staff in advanced life support techniques.
- Improved overall team performance by implementing a comprehensive performance evaluation system.
- Collaborated with community partners to provide public education on emergency preparedness and injury prevention initiatives.
- Mentored junior paramedics, fostering professional growth and development within the team.
- Served as a liaison between the EMS department and other health care organizations to facilitate collaboration on projects that improve patient outcomes.
- Managed scheduling, payroll, and personnel matters for the paramedic team to maintain optimal staffing levels at all times.
- Implemented an effective inventory management system for medical supplies and equipment, reducing waste and controlling costs.
- Facilitated continuing education opportunities for paramedic staff, promoting a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
- Developed strong relationships with local hospitals and healthcare providers, ensuring smooth patient handoffs and improved care coordination.
- Contributed to the development of department-wide policies, procedures, and protocols aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness.
- Enhanced emergency response efficiency by streamlining communication and coordination between paramedics.
- Upheld high standards of professionalism within the team by modeling ethical behavior in all aspects of work.
- Delivered advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), basic life support (BLS), and pediatric advanced life support (PALS) under pressure.
- Responded to daily emergencies and worked alongside firemen and EMTs.
- Restocked ambulance with proper equipment such as vents, ET tubes, medication, and IV pump tubing to maintain optimum inventory.
Firefighter/EMT-Basic
Sheakleyville Volunteer Fire Department
09.1990 - 08.2006
- 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.
- 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.
- Utilized technical expertise in operating specialized firefighting equipment such as aerial ladders, hydraulic extrication tools, and thermal imaging cameras.
- Initiated first aid measures to alleviate further injury and prepared victims for transport to medical facilities.
- Oversaw equipment and vehicle upkeep to maintain emergency readiness.
- Trained new firefighters to comply with safety protocols and equipment usage.
- Documented emergency calls and equipment maintenance to enable tracking history and maintain accurate records.
- Contributed to positive outcomes during multi-agency responses by effectively collaborating with law enforcement personnel, paramedics, and other emergency service providers.
- Educated the local community on fire safety practices through presentations at schools, businesses, and other public venues.
- Participated in community outreach programs to raise awareness of fire prevention and safety measures.
- Assisted in wildfire suppression efforts by coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies to establish containment lines and protect threatened structures.
- Collaborated with other emergency responders on scene to establish adequate fire suppression.
- Participated in post-incident analyses to identify areas for improvement in departmental policies and procedures.
- Enhanced overall departmental performance by attending professional development courses and conferences, sharing acquired knowledge with colleagues upon return.
- Assisted in the containment of hazardous materials spills, ensuring public safety and environmental protection.
- Controlled hazardous materials and waste incidents to avoid fires and injuries.
- Conducted search and rescue operations during natural disasters, locating trapped individuals and providing assistance as needed.
- Monitored and responded to hazardous gas levels and smoke detectors to avoid injuries and fatalities.
- Operated hoses, pumps, ladders and other firefighting equipment.
- Responded to emergency calls and provided medical assistance to injured individuals.
- Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds, and stations for proper order and condition.
- Assisted with regular maintenance of firefighting equipment.
- Prepared incident reports detailing personnel, location and results of each call.
- Conducted thorough tests and inspections of gear, equipment and tools to stay ready for every type of fire.
- Provided station tours, pre-incident surveys and installed smoke detectors to provide fire education to public.
- Effectively supported fire suppression by setting up and maintaining water supply lines.
- Maintained close contact with dispatch to receive and share information about current fires, equipment movements, and incoming personnel.
- Conducted fire drills and trained new recruits in use of firefighting equipment.
Paramedic Supervisor
Life Force Ambulance
07.1998 - 02.2005
- Addressed any performance or disciplinary issues within the team promptly and fairly, ensuring a positive work environment for all staff members.
- Increased patient survival rates through rigorous training of paramedic staff in advanced life support techniques.
- Collaborated with community partners to provide public education on emergency preparedness and injury prevention initiatives.
- Ensured compliance with all state and federal regulations for EMS operations, maintaining a flawless safety record.
- Mentored junior paramedics, fostering professional growth and development within the team.
- Served as a liaison between the EMS department and other health care organizations to facilitate collaboration on projects that improve patient outcomes.
- Managed scheduling, payroll, and personnel matters for the paramedic team to maintain optimal staffing levels at all times.
- Evaluated emerging trends and new technologies in the field of emergency medical services to ensure that the team remained at the forefront of best practices.
- Developed strong relationships with local hospitals and healthcare providers, ensuring smooth patient handoffs and improved care coordination.
- Contributed to the development of department-wide policies, procedures, and protocols aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness.
- Conducted regular quality assurance audits of patient care records, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes.
- Coordinated with other emergency services agencies during mass casualty incidents to optimize resource utilization and ensure seamless incident management.
- Upheld high standards of professionalism within the team by modeling ethical behavior in all aspects of work.
- Delivered advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), basic life support (BLS), and pediatric advanced life support (PALS) under pressure.
- Transferred patients safely and securely to medical facilities for continued care.
- Evaluated patient vital signs and status to determine care needs using pulse oximeters and electronic vital sign machines.
- Worked en-route to hospital to prepare patients for arrival or surgery and control wounds.
- Conducted equipment and vehicle checks to maintain continuous and safe operation.
- Assessed patient condition through physical and verbal exams and by collecting information from others at scene.
- Adapted treatment plans quickly and effectively based on changing patient conditions and reactions.
- Identified appropriate medications based on potential interactions with other medicines, accurately calculating correct dosages according to drugs on hand and patient's weight.
- Triaged injuries by communicating with patients, bystanders and family members and identified appropriate medical facility for transport.
- Responded to daily emergencies and worked alongside firemen and EMTs.
- Administered fluid replacement via IV, IO, and IM to replace fluid volumes and correct electrolyte imbalances.
- Delegated life-saving tasks to provide comprehensive treatment to triaged patients in emergency situations.
- Stayed in constant communication with patients to continuously maintain care and comfort during transportation.
- Performed intubations to secure airway in patients under respiratory and cardiac arrest.
- Administered continuous 12-lead electrocardiogram monitoring to record heart rhythms in patients with acute coronary syndrome.
- Maintained patient care, treatment and medication documentation for accurate, up-to-date clinical records.
- Restocked ambulance with proper equipment such as vents, ET tubes, medication, and IV pump tubing to maintain optimum inventory.
- Recruited, hired and trained all staff, providing direct supervision, ongoing staff development and continuing education to employees.
- Liaised with other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive patient care plans and provide highest quality of care.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Electrical, Electronics Engineering Technologies
Itt Technical Institute
Youngstown, OH06.1992
High School Diploma -
Commodore Perry High School
Hadley, PA06.1990
No Degree - Electrical, Electronics Engineering Technologies
Mercer County Career Center
Mercer, PA06.1990
Skills
- Firefighting operations
- Incident Command
- Workload prioritization
- Fire suppression
- Emergency Management
- Fire prevention
- Interagency Coordination
- Hazardous Materials Response
- Investigation techniques
- Emergency Response Procedures
- Disaster preparedness
- Staff Development
- Records Management
- Training programs
- Resources Allocation
- Rescue Operations
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Problem-Solving
- Reliability
- Team Collaboration
- Crew Leadership
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Decision-Making
- Self Motivation
- Crew training
- Interpersonal Skills
- Analytical Thinking
- Incident Reporting
- Fire department maintenance
- Continuous Improvement
- Adaptability
- Safety enforcement
- Policy Enforcement
- Performance monitoring
Accomplishments
Collected data of response times, dropped call volumes to aid in the reduction of on average response times of 14 minutes from the time of dispatch to on location reduced to 6 minutes from the time of dispatch to on scene for Ems calls. Fire responses went from 16 minutes from the time of dispatch to on scene to 9 minutes. This was accomplished by improving retention and recruiting utilizing incentives to maintain on station and close proximity staffing. Improved financial stabilization and able to update all equipment necessary to provide fire and emergency services to the community utilizing multiple grants which on an annual collected $350,000.00. A combined schedule of availability of personnel including six emergency service agencies was accomplished with assistance of others. A community outreach program with Gannon University.
Certification
- EVOC - Emergency Vehicle Operators Course
- Pa Emt-P
- Proboard Firefighter 1
- NIMMS 100-800
- CCAC Preceptor
- National Certification for Ambulance Documentation specialist
- Proboard Hazmat
Timeline
Fire Chief
Albion Volunteer Fire Department
01.2021 - Current
Paramedic
East Erie County Ems
08.2018 - Current
Paramedic
Perry Hiway Hose Company
10.2016 - 08.2018
Paramedic
West County Paramedic Association
03.2015 - 10.2016
Paramedic Supervisor
Mcgonigle Ambulance
02.2005 - 03.2015
Paramedic Supervisor
Life Force Ambulance
07.1998 - 02.2005
Firefighter/EMT-Basic
Sheakleyville Volunteer Fire Department
09.1990 - 08.2006
Associate of Applied Science - Electrical, Electronics Engineering Technologies
Itt Technical Institute
High School Diploma -
Commodore Perry High School
No Degree - Electrical, Electronics Engineering Technologies
Mercer County Career Center
- EVOC - Emergency Vehicle Operators Course
- Pa Emt-P
- Proboard Firefighter 1
- NIMMS 100-800
- CCAC Preceptor
- National Certification for Ambulance Documentation specialist
- Proboard Hazmat
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