Chief Guy M. Bonin
New Iberia,LA
Summary
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.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
Fire Chief
Iberia Parish Fire District #1
04.2008 - Current
- Supervised firehouse operations, maintaining inventory and liaising with vendors to secure necessary supplies.
- Oversaw proper implementation of best practices, policies and procedures in alignment with regulations and operational needs.
- Optimized fire services management with introduction of new systems, policies, procedures and tools.
- Conducted periodic firefighter written performance evaluations and completed written recommendations on probationary firefighters.
- Directed work of firefighters engaged in extinguishing fires.
- Implemented comprehensive training operations, inspections and performance evaluations.
- Coordinated, scheduled and maintained team resources to achieve top levels of operational readiness.
- Evaluated team performance and implemented strategies to close gaps in skills or knowledge.
- Assessed scenes, coordinated responses and communicated critical details to superiors through two-way radios.
- Prepared and adjusted schedules to cover demand.
- Assigned firefighters to jobs at strategic locations to facilitate rescue of persons and maximize application of extinguishing agents.
- Inspected buildings to determine fire risk and advise owners on prevention methods.
- Oversaw scene operations and assigned firefighters to strategic locations.
- Inspected stations, uniforms and vehicles regularly for signs of maintenance needs or general professionalism.
- Created fire prevention courses to educate general public.
- Checked fire suppression equipment regularly and oversaw upkeep.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend and holiday shifts.
- Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems.
- Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
- Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others.
Fire Coordinator
St. Martin Parish Fire District
01.2006 - 04.2008
- Coached employees through day-to-day work and complex problems.
- Entered data, generated reports, and produced tracking documents.
- Set priorities and problem-solved workflow issues to maintain rapport with customers and managers.
- Gathered and organized materials to support operations.
- Tracked records, filed documents and maintained communication between clients to manage office activities.
- Prepared agendas and took notes at meetings to archive proceedings.
Salesperson
Ferrara Fire Apparatus
01.1996 - 04.2008
- Worked to build relationships with customers and built potential for additional sales.
- Engaged customers in social conversations to create pleasant and easy shopping experience.
- Increased sales and customer satisfaction through personalized servicing.
- Offered each customer top-notch, personal service to boost sales and customer satisfaction.
- Listened to clients and introduced solutions to satisfy business and personal needs.
- Asked open-ended questions to determine needs and assisted customers in selecting appropriate merchandise.
- Trained fire departments on the proper use of rescue equipment and fire apparatus.
Volunteer Fire Chief
Lydia Fire Department
01.1996 - 04.2006
- Oversaw proper implementation of best practices, policies and procedures in alignment with regulations and operational needs.
- Implemented comprehensive training operations, inspections and performance evaluations.
- Supervised firehouse operations, maintaining inventory and liaising with vendors to secure necessary supplies.
- Directed work of firefighters engaged in extinguishing fires.
- Supervised cleaning and maintenance of buildings, rooms and equipment.
- Coordinated, scheduled and maintained team resources to achieve top levels of operational readiness.
Volunteer Fire Chief
Pearl River Fire Department
01.1996 - 04.2003
- Oversaw proper implementation of best practices, policies and procedures in alignment with regulations and operational needs.
- Implemented comprehensive training operations, inspections and performance evaluations.
- Supervised firehouse operations, maintaining inventory and liaising with vendors to secure necessary supplies.
- Directed work of firefighters engaged in extinguishing fires.
- Supervised cleaning and maintenance of buildings, rooms and equipment.
- Coordinated, scheduled and maintained team resources to achieve top levels of operational readiness.
Firefighter
New Iberia Fire Department
06.1988 - 01.1996
- 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.
- Collaborated with other emergency responders on scene to establish adequate fire suppression.
- Documented emergency calls and equipment maintenance to enable tracking history and maintain accurate records.
- Participated in physical fitness and training programs to maintain preparedness and stamina for fire rescues.
- Participated in community outreach programs to raise awareness of fire prevention and safety measures.
- Educated public and community members on fire safety and prevention methods to provide life-saving techniques.
- Oversaw firefighting equipment and vehicle upkeep to maintain emergency readiness.
- Evaluated situation at emergency sites to determine and execute most effective methods for saving life and property.
- Monitored and responded to hazardous gas levels and smoke detectors to avoid injuries and fatalities.
- Controlled hazardous materials and waste incidents to avoid fires and injuries.
- Conducted thorough tests and inspections of gear, equipment and tools to stay ready for every type of fire.
- Laid and connected hoses, held nozzles and directed water streams as part of fire suppression activities at active scenes.
- Conducted fire drills and trained new recruits in use of firefighting equipment.
- Worked with building owners and users to outline actions required to bring structures in compliance with relevant fire code regulations, laws and accepted standards.
- Analyzed evidence and other information to determine probable cause of fire or explosion.
- Prepared recommendations to eliminate potential fire and safety hazards at establishments.
- Controlled safety protocols and avoided potential hazards at fire incident scenes to protect investigation personnel from harm.
- Spearheaded public education initiatives on fire safety topics, prevention options and emergency response strategies.
Education
High School Diploma -
Catholic High School
New Iberia, LA05.1985
Skills
- Firefighting Operations
- Regulatory Enforcement
- Resources Allocation
- Fire Protection
- Emergency Response Procedures
- Fire Prevention
- Personnel Training
- Public Education
- Performance Monitoring
- Administration and Management
- Disaster Management
- Emergency Response
- Emergency Medical Treatment
- Staff Performance Evaluation
- Fire Inspection Investigations
- Personnel Management
- Emergency Response Coordination
- Site Inspections
Objectives
To maximize my experience and expertise as a newly appointed State Fire Marshall to enhance public safety and protect lives, property, and the environment from the dangers of fire and other hazards. I aim to diligently enforce fire codes and regulations, conduct thorough investigations, and deliver comprehensive fire prevention and education initiates to prevent and mitigate fire-related incidents. I aim to direct the focus of the Louisiana Fire Emergency Training Academy to be a direct resource to all Fire Departments and agencies throughout the state rather than being utilized as a response agency.
Summary of Qualifications
- Extensive Knowledge: Possess deep understanding of fire behavior, fire suppression techniques, hazardous material storage regulations, and emergency response protocols. Stay updated with the latest advancements in fire safety and prevention.
- Leadership and Collaboration: Proven track record of developing and implementing fire safety plans, and coordinating with various stakeholders including fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and local authorities.
- Regulatory Compliance: Work with enforcing state fire codes, conducting inspections to ensure compliance, and issuing permits for events, construction projects, and hazardous material storage facilities.
- Investigation and Analysis: Capable of conducting thorough fire investigations to determine the cause and origin of fires, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and documenting findings.
- Fire Prevention and Education: Experienced in designing and implementing comprehensive fire prevention programs, conducting fire safety training sessions for public and private organizations, and promoting fire safety awareness through community outreach initiatives.
- Emergency Response Coordination: Skilled in coordinating with emergency response agencies during large-scale incidents, providing situational assessments, and ensuring effective communication and collaboration among response teams.
- Communication and Public Relations: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively deliver presentations, write reports, and interact with diverse audiences.
Accomplishments
- Collaborated with a team of Louisiana Fire Chiefs to pass legislation for the betterment of the Louisiana Fire Service.
- With the support of the Fire Board, built an Administrative Office and Training Facility utilized by multiple Fire Departments, Sheriff's Office and various business entities.
- As President of the Louisiana Fire Chief's Association, celebrated our largest conference in its history, having gained notable, professional and financial support with attendance of 94 local and national vendors, and generating substantial funding for Louisiana Fire Chief's and its foundation.
- Developed the Executive Fire Officer Program to train prospective Fire Chiefs and newly appointed Fire Chiefs to excel in their position.
- Created a training scholarship for Louisiana Fire Chief's Association designee.
- Supervised multiple rescue operations for natural disasters.
- Supervised large scale hazardous chemical release - Multichem.
Continuing Education
- Child Fire Setting - 40 hours, Fire Service Training Certificate
National Fire Protection Association
- February 1989: Firefighter I
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Division of Continuing Education
- December 1989: Computer Aided Management of Emergency Operations - 24 hours
United States Environmental Protection Agency Region 6
- September 1991: Fire Investigator - 36 hours, Firemen Training Program
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Division of Continuing Education
- November 1991: Pump Operations I - 40 hours, Firemen Training Program
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Division of Continuing Education
- April 1992: Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers - 3 hours, Certificate of Completion
NATCO
- January 1993: Fire Inspection Principles, Certificate of Achievement
United States Fire Administration, National Fire Academy
- February 1995: Behavioral Course in Traffic Safety Education, National Traffic Safety Institute
- May 2006: Fire Science and Technology Educators Section
National Fire Protection Association
- August 2008: Hazardous Materials Awareness, Firefighter and Emergency Responder Certification
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Office of Academic Affairs
- September 2008: Hazardous Materials Operations, Firefighter and Emergency Responder Certification
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Office of Academic Affairs
- October 2008: Fire Service Instructor I, Firefighter and Emergency Responder Certification
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Office of Academic Affairs
- October 2008: Fire Fighter II, Firefighter and Emergency Responder Certification
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Office of Academic Affairs
- November 2008: Fire Officer I, Firefighter and Emergency Responder Certification
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Office of Academic Affairs
- January 2009: Fire Service Instructor II, Firefighter and Emergency Responder Certification
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Office of Academic Affairs
- 2009 ICS-100 Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents
- 2009 ICS-200 Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents
- 2009 ICS-300 Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents
- 2009 ICS-700 Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents
- 2009 ICS-800 Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents
- 2010 - Current, Louisiana Fire Chief's Fall Symposium and Conference
- 2013 - Current, National Volunteer Fire Council, State Representative
- 2013 Incident Response to Terrorist Bombings
- 2021 - Current, First Net User Summit and Training, as Louisiana Representative
Awards/Recognition
- 2023 Louisiana 1st Responders' Christian Association Fire Chiefs Hall of Fame
- 2022 Meritorious Service Award, Acadian Ambulance Service
- 2019 Meritorious Service Award, Acadian Ambulance Service
- 2019 Medal of Valor Life Saving Operations
- 2017 Patriot Award, United States Department of Defense
- 2013 Certificate of Recognition, Service to Youth Above and Beyond the Call of Duty, Iberia Parish School Board
- 2010 Medal of Valor Life Saving Operations
- 2009 Leadership Iberia XI-2009, State of Louisiana, Iberia Parish Government
- 1995 Certificate of Appreciation, New Iberia Lions Club
- 1995 Certificate of Appreciation ,Boy Scouts of America
- 1995 Citation of Merit, Muscular Dystrophy Association
- 1994 Citation of Merit, Muscular Dystrophy Association
Affiliations
- Louisiana State Fire Chief's Association
- Louisiana State Firemen's Association
- Louisiana Arson and Task Force
- National Fire Protection Association
- National Volunteer Fire Council
- Professional Firefighters Association
- New Iberia Fire Department Union
Committees
- St. Edward's Elementary Transition Team
- St. Edward's Elementary Leadership Committee
- Iberia Parish Fire District 911 Commission
- National Volunteer Fire Council, Audit Committee
- National Volunteer Fire Council, By-Laws Committee
- First Net Representative for Louisiana Fire Chief's Association
- Louisiana Fire Chief's Foundation Committee
- Iberia Parish Communications District Commission
Timeline
Fire Chief
Iberia Parish Fire District #1
04.2008 - Current
Fire Coordinator
St. Martin Parish Fire District
01.2006 - 04.2008
Salesperson
Ferrara Fire Apparatus
01.1996 - 04.2008
Volunteer Fire Chief
Lydia Fire Department
01.1996 - 04.2006
Volunteer Fire Chief
Pearl River Fire Department
01.1996 - 04.2003
Firefighter
New Iberia Fire Department
06.1988 - 01.1996
High School Diploma -
Catholic High School
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