Dynamic Deputy Fire Chief with proven expertise in leadership, emergency response planning, and team building. Skilled in crisis communication and community outreach, driving impactful fire safety initiatives and enhancing departmental operations.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Fire Chief
Missoula Rural Fire District
Missoula, MT
12.2023 - Current
Coordinated community outreach initiatives to enhance fire safety awareness.
Conducted inspections of fire stations to ensure compliance with standards.
Assisted in budget planning and resource allocation for departmental needs.
Regularly evaluated staff performance to uphold high service quality.
Provided leadership and management of Fire Department personnel and operations.
Monitored budgeting processes to maintain fiscal responsibility within the department.
Established policies and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance.
Implemented new technologies, including GPS tracking systems, for emergency vehicles.
Accreditation Manager
Missoula Rural Fire District
Missoula, MT
10.2020 - 12.2023
Reviewed documentation to verify compliance with industry best practices.
Coordinated training programs for staff on accreditation standards and procedures.
Managed communication with regulatory agencies regarding accreditation status.
Conducted audits of departmental processes for adherence to accreditation guidelines.
Facilitated workshops to enhance understanding of accreditation requirements among staff.
Maintained records and documentation related to all accreditation activities and processes.
Stayed up to date on relevant processes and compliance standards for optimal oversight.
Collaborated with internal departments such as Human Resources, Finance, IT. to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
Participated in professional development opportunities related to accreditation trends and best practices.
Coordinated preparation for on-site visits from accrediting bodies.
Evaluated outcomes data collected from accredited programs or institutions against established benchmarks.
Developed training materials to educate faculty and staff on the importance of accreditation standards.
Analyzed data to identify gaps in program performance and develop strategies for improvement.
Assisted in the development and implementation of accreditation policies, procedures and standards.
Facilitated communication between external organizations involved in the accreditation process.
Maintained records of all forms, documents, correspondence, and other materials related to the accreditation process.
Provided guidance to staff regarding accreditation processes, documentation, and reporting requirements.
Conducted periodic reviews of program operations to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements.
Built positive working relationships with other department managers through effective communication.
Completed quarterly and yearly audits.
Performed consistently with all quality objectives, including planning, control and optimization strategies.
Contributed to large-scale risk assessment initiatives and promoted improved business procedures and controls.
Firefighter/Paramedic
Missoula Rural Fire District
Missoula, MT
04.2015 - 10.2020
Responded promptly to emergency calls and assessed fire scenes.
Operated fire suppression equipment and maintained readiness for emergencies.
Conducted fire safety inspections and educated community members on prevention techniques.
Collaborated with team members during training exercises to enhance firefighting skills.
Assisted in the development of firefighting strategies and operational procedures.
Provided first aid and CPR to injured individuals at emergency sites.
Participated in community outreach programs to promote fire safety awareness.
Maintained equipment inventory and ensured tools were in optimal condition for use.
Communicated effectively with crew members while performing tasks under stressful conditions.
Participated in training drills and exercises to maintain proficiency in fire suppression tactics.
Trained continuously to maintain required physical fitness for demanding work.
Cleaned, serviced and maintained fire apparatus in condition of readiness and performed general maintenance of fire department property.
Laid hose lines and operated nozzles, pumps, hydrants, and fire extinguishers.
Responded immediately to alarms for fires, vehicle accidents, and other emergency situations.
Maintained firefighting equipment, including hoses and ladders, on a daily basis.
Assisted in responding to emergency calls, assessing situations, and providing necessary medical aid.
Extinguished fires using water hoses, chemical extinguishers, smoke ejectors, and other tools.
Administered emergency treatment and medical care to people injured in accidents and fires.
Collaborated with other emergency personnel when responding to accident scenes or acute illness calls requiring emergency medical care.
Performed search and rescue operations in hazardous environments.
Coordinated with other first responders during multi-agency responses.
Analyzed situations to quickly adopt courses of action with regard to surroundings and circumstances.
Checked hoses and breathing masks after fire calls to determine proper functionality.
Informed and educated local community members about fire prevention and safety.
Prepared detailed reports concerning all activities at emergency scenes.
Responded quickly to hazardous materials incidents by containing spills or leaks with appropriate protective gear.
Participated in on-call schedule to respond to requests for assistance after hours and on weekends or holidays.
Ascended and descended ladders, stairs and ramps in smoke-filled areas.
Assisted in cleaning up hazardous materials following an incident scene.
Inspected vehicles for proper operation prior to use on emergency calls.
Participated in fire and life safety inspections of commercial and residential properties and checked operating condition of hydrants.
Employed systematic search and rescue procedures and location and excavation devices to safely locate and evacuate victims.
Monitored weather conditions for potential threats such as wildland fires or flash flooding.
Observed strict safety protocols to maintain personal and coworker safety.
Used axes and other tools to break through windows and debris.
Triaged patients to assist emergency workers in administering medical care.
Checked smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in residences and businesses.
Established and managed water supplies to support suppression activities.
Patrolled previously burned areas after fire containment to locate and eliminate dangerous hot spots.
Rehabilitated fire hoses, portable water tanks and other equipment.
Responded to emergency calls and assessed patient conditions on-site.
Administered medical treatments and medications according to established protocols.
Operated life support equipment and maintained medical supplies in vehicles.
Documented patient information and treatment details for reporting purposes.
Educated community members on health and safety practices during outreach events.
Trained new paramedics on procedures, equipment usage, and safety protocols.
Adhered to protocols and procedures to maintain safety of patients and paramedic crew.
Assessed and treated patients with medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest, shock, trauma, respiratory distress and intoxication.
Provided pre-hospital care to those in need within the community, including administering medications, providing wound care and performing intubations.
Developed strong rapport with other medical professionals to foster quality and efficient patient care.
Remained level-headed and proactive during emergency situations.
Documented care provided to patients into reports for submission to supervisor.
Demonstrated dedication to providing quality care through continued training and education.
Responded quickly to medical emergencies to promote best possible health outcomes.
Provided emotional support for family members of critically ill or injured patients.
Critical Care Flight Paramedic
St. Patrick Hospital/Northwest Medstar
Missoula, MT
03.2008 - 06.2015
Administered advanced life support in critical care transport environments.
Collaborated with medical teams to develop patient care plans.
Operated specialized medical equipment during air evacuations.
Communicated effectively with ground and flight crews for seamless operations.
Assessed patient conditions and provided timely interventions in emergencies.
Trained new paramedics on protocols and procedures for flight operations.
Maintained accurate medical records during transport for continuity of care.
Ensured compliance with safety regulations and operational protocols during flights.
Followed established protocols for safe aircraft operations during take-off, landing and in-flight maneuvers.
Provided emergency medical services to victims at accident scenes or other locations where assistance was needed.
Communicated effectively with family members of critically ill or injured patients during transport.
Coordinated with physicians regarding treatment plans for critical care patients.
Transported critically ill or injured patients on helicopters or airplanes while providing continuous monitoring and care.
Monitored patient's response to medications and treatments administered during transport.
Maintained communication with hospital staff regarding patient transfers and arrival times.
Conducted a thorough physical examination, including vital signs, to determine the patient's condition.
Performed rapid assessment of critically ill and injured patients in pre-hospital environments.
Assessed and managed airway, breathing and circulation problems in the field setting.
Consulted with medical control personnel via radio communications throughout flight missions.
Ensured proper documentation of all treatments provided during flights.
Participated in continuing education programs related to critical care flight paramedic duties.
Responded quickly to requests from hospitals for inter-facility transports.
Managed multiple simultaneous tasks under high pressure situations while maintaining professional demeanor.
Reviewed patient records prior to transport in order to be prepared for any potential issues that may arise en route.
Provided advanced medical interventions such as intubation, intravenous access, chest tube insertion, drug administration and defibrillation.
Treated patients during air transport.
Evaluated the need for additional equipment or supplies prior to flight missions.
Updated hospital staff on patient health status for rapid and effective care.
Assisted pilot with navigation and radio communication.
Adhered to flight protocols to protect well-being of patients and staff.
Performed emergency life support and treated sick and injured persons at remote locations.
Attended training sessions, maintained required certifications and kept current in lifesaving techniques and technologies.
Inserted IVs and administered oral and injectable medications.
Interviewed patients to obtain medical history and details on current issues.
Calmed patients by carefully explaining each step and remaining composed.
Assessed scene upon arrival for possible hazards or dangerous situations.
Explained medical terminology in non-complex terms o patients.
Monitored supplies and equipment inventory and replenished promptly before another emergency call.
Cleaned vehicles and patient care compartments, performed routine maintenance checks and maintained constant readiness for emergencies.
Reported infectious disease cases to appropriate medical authorities.
Flight Paramedic
Kalispell Regional Medical Center
Kalispell, Montana
09.2003 - 06.2008
Administered advanced life support during air transport missions.
Collaborated with emergency medical personnel on patient care strategies.
Operated medical equipment and monitoring devices in-flight.
Assessed patients' conditions and determined appropriate interventions.
Documented patient information and treatment procedures accurately.
Coordinated with hospital staff for seamless patient handoffs upon arrival.
Maintained compliance with safety regulations and operational standards in aviation medicine.
Monitored patient vital signs throughout flight and adjusted treatments accordingly.
Inspected all supplies before take offs and restocked items after each mission as needed.
Performed triage duties in order to prioritize treatment based on severity of illness or injury.
Responded quickly and effectively to any changes in patient condition during flights.
Adhered to flight protocols to protect well-being of patients and staff.
Participated in training sessions designed to keep skills up-to-date according to industry standards.
Updated hospital staff on patient health status for rapid and effective care.
Provided pre-flight medical assessments to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members.
Prepared detailed reports outlining the course of action taken during each flight mission.
Provided guidance and support for family members who were accompanying an ill or injured passenger on board aircrafts.
Collaborated with other healthcare professionals onboard aircrafts to coordinate comprehensive patient care plans.
Utilized various types of specialized medical equipment, such as defibrillators, oxygen tanks, IV drips.
Treated patients during air transport.
Maintained current knowledge of FAA regulations pertaining to medical issues on aircrafts.
Evaluated new technologies that could be used aboard aircrafts for improved patient care.
Administered medications prescribed by physicians for patients in need of care during flights.
Facilitated communication between ground personnel and flight crew regarding patient care needs.
Assisted in emergency medical situations during flight, including delivering life saving treatments such as CPR and intubation.
Inserted IVs and administered oral and injectable medications.
Interviewed patients to obtain medical history and details on current issues.
Calmed patients by carefully explaining each step and remaining composed.
Assessed scene upon arrival for possible hazards or dangerous situations.
Assessed patients and environment, administered CPR and stabilized patients for transport to hospital.
Immobilized patients for transport using backboard or other spinal mobilization.
Reported and documented medical treatment administered on-site and during transport to healthcare facility.
Positioned patients in preparation for treatment and transport.
Suctioned airways to clear obstructions and help patients breathe.
Cleaned vehicles and patient care compartments, performed routine maintenance checks and maintained constant readiness for emergencies.
Responded promptly to emergency calls and drove ambulance safely to site.
Fire Lieutenant/Firefighter/Paramedic Supervisor
Kalispell City Fire Department
Kalispell, Montana
03.2002 - 06.2008
Supervised firefighting operations during emergency incidents and training exercises.
Coordinated response efforts with local agencies and emergency services.
Trained and mentored junior firefighters on safety procedures and equipment usage.
Operated fire apparatus and specialized rescue equipment during emergencies.
Developed incident action plans to effectively manage firefighting strategies.
Led debriefing sessions to evaluate response effectiveness after incidents.
Maintained firefighting equipment and ensured readiness for deployment.
Prepared records and reports of company responses to fires or other emergencies.
Responded to calls involving hazardous materials incidents, rescue operations, or medical emergencies as needed.
Directed and coordinated firefighting operations to ensure safety of personnel, property, and the public.
Developed and implemented training programs for firefighters.
Performed fundamental firefighter and driver duties.
Conducted daily inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Evaluated performance of subordinate staff and provided feedback.
Identified opportunities for improvement in operational procedures, policies, and practices.
Maintained communication with community groups to promote public awareness about fire safety measures.
Supervised the maintenance of firefighting apparatus, equipment, and supplies.
Provided technical advice on fire prevention matters to management staff.
Ensured that all personnel adhered to established standards for conduct, behavior, and dress code requirements.
Coordinated activities with other agencies during emergency incidents.
Represented the department at conferences, conventions or seminars as required.
Facilitated interagency coordination among various organizations involved in emergency response operations.
Managed staff schedules for shifts and events to minimize overtime costs.
Located hydrants and operated pumps at proper pressure to evaluate adequacy of water system and availability of water supply.
Collaborated with Hazmat to clean up chemical and oil spills.
Responded to emergency calls and assessed fire situations promptly.
Operated firefighting equipment and tools during emergency incidents.
Conducted fire safety inspections and ensured compliance with regulations.
Collaborated with team members to develop firefighting strategies and plans.
Provided first aid and medical assistance to injured individuals at the scene.
Participated in training exercises to enhance firefighting skills and knowledge.
Maintained readiness of firefighting apparatus and equipment through regular checks.
Communicated effectively with crew members while performing tasks under stressful conditions.
Participated in training drills and exercises to maintain proficiency in fire suppression tactics.
Trained continuously to maintain required physical fitness for demanding work.
Cleaned, serviced and maintained fire apparatus in condition of readiness and performed general maintenance of fire department property.
Laid hose lines and operated nozzles, pumps, hydrants, and fire extinguishers.
Responded immediately to alarms for fires, vehicle accidents, and other emergency situations.
Maintained firefighting equipment, including hoses and ladders, on a daily basis.
Assisted in responding to emergency calls, assessing situations, and providing necessary medical aid.
Administered emergency treatment and medical care to people injured in accidents and fires.
Extinguished fires using water hoses, chemical extinguishers, smoke ejectors, and other tools.
Collaborated with other emergency personnel when responding to accident scenes or acute illness calls requiring emergency medical care.
Performed search and rescue operations in hazardous environments.
Coordinated with other first responders during multi-agency responses.
Analyzed situations to quickly adopt courses of action with regard to surroundings and circumstances.
Checked hoses and breathing masks after fire calls to determine proper functionality.
Prepared detailed reports concerning all activities at emergency scenes.
Participated in on-call schedule to respond to requests for assistance after hours and on weekends or holidays.
Ascended and descended ladders, stairs and ramps in smoke-filled areas.
Assisted in cleaning up hazardous materials following an incident scene.
Inspected vehicles for proper operation prior to use on emergency calls.
Employed systematic search and rescue procedures and location and excavation devices to safely locate and evacuate victims.
Investigated the causes of fires to determine origin and cause.
Attended trainings to maintain wealth of knowledge in firefighting techniques and suppression methods, enabling quick decision making during actual emergencies.
Observed strict safety protocols to maintain personal and coworker safety.
Used axes and other tools to break through windows and debris.
Located victims trapped by fires, extricated and rendered first aid.
Triaged patients to assist emergency workers in administering medical care.
Checked smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in residences and businesses.
Established and managed water supplies to support suppression activities.
Supervised emergency medical services team during high-pressure situations.
Coordinated patient care and transport with hospitals and healthcare providers.
Developed training programs for new paramedics to enhance skills and knowledge.
Ensured compliance with health regulations and safety protocols in operations.
Managed inventory of medical supplies and equipment for efficient service delivery.
Conducted performance evaluations for paramedic staff to improve team effectiveness.
Responded to emergency calls, providing critical care in various environments.
Analyzed data collected from paramedic responses in order to identify areas for improvement.
Monitored inventory levels of medical supplies and ordered additional items as needed.
Attended continuing education classes in order to stay current on industry trends and best practices.
Ensured that all equipment was properly maintained and calibrated according to safety standards.
Responded promptly to complaints from patients or their families concerning paramedic services provided.
Investigated any incidents involving negligence or misconduct reported by paramedics or other personnel.
Remained level-headed and proactive during emergency situations.
Assessed emergency situations and prioritized medical care for patients.
Demonstrated dedication to providing quality care through continued training and education.
Evaluated patients' medical status and monitored vital signs during transit.
Saved lives by administering medications, monitoring cardiac output and performing emergency intubations.
Responded quickly to medical emergencies to promote best possible health outcomes.
Administered CPR and other life-saving techniques on patients in cardiac arrest.
Transported patients from accident scenes to hospitals in emergency vehicles.
Documented care provided to patients into reports for submission to supervisor.
Explained each step of treatment to conscious patients to reduce fear and invoke calm.
Monitored patients from scene to hospital transfer while conducting in-transit care.
Treated patients suffering from heart attacks, strokes and motor vehicle accident injuries.
Performed standard testing and administered medication to manage care in field and in transit.
Assessed scene on arrival to identify potential safety issues and hazards affecting first responders.
Obtained details regarding patient by questioning family members and bystanders.
Performed emergency life support and treated sick and injured persons at remote locations.
Attended training sessions, maintained required certifications and kept current in lifesaving techniques and technologies.
Inserted IVs and administered oral and injectable medications.
Interviewed patients to obtain medical history and details on current issues.
Calmed patients by carefully explaining each step and remaining composed.
Assessed scene upon arrival for possible hazards or dangerous situations.
Explained medical terminology in non-complex terms o patients.
Immobilized patients for transport using backboard or other spinal mobilization.
Bandaged wounds and determined necessity for stitches or sutures.
Monitored supplies and equipment inventory and replenished promptly before another emergency call.
Reported and documented medical treatment administered on-site and during transport to healthcare facility.
Positioned patients in preparation for treatment and transport.
Suctioned airways to clear obstructions and help patients breathe.
Cleaned vehicles and patient care compartments, performed routine maintenance checks and maintained constant readiness for emergencies.
Responded promptly to emergency calls and drove ambulance safely to site.
Executed non-medical, non-emergency transfers for immobile persons.
Paramedic
Medic Ambulance Services
Vallejo, California
07.2001 - 02.2002
Responded to emergency calls and assessed patient conditions.
Administered advanced life support techniques and medications on-site.
Collaborated with healthcare teams for effective patient transport and care.
Maintained equipment readiness and performed routine checks on ambulances.
Documented patient information and treatment procedures accurately in reports.
Provided compassionate support to patients and families during emergencies.
Adhered to protocols and procedures to maintain safety of patients and paramedic crew.
Assessed and treated patients with medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest, shock, trauma, respiratory distress and intoxication.
Provided pre-hospital care to those in need within the community, including administering medications, providing wound care and performing intubations.
Developed strong rapport with other medical professionals to foster quality and efficient patient care.
Operated specialized medical equipment such as ventilators, defibrillators, suction devices and stretchers.
Assessed emergency situations and prioritized medical care for patients.
Maintained proficiency in advanced life support skills through continuing education classes and workshops.
Responded to emergency calls quickly and safely while utilizing appropriate driving techniques.
Transported patients from accident scenes or hospital settings to medical facilities in a safe manner.
Remained level-headed and proactive during emergency situations.
Documented care provided to patients into reports for submission to supervisor.
Administered CPR and other life-saving techniques on patients in cardiac arrest.
Demonstrated dedication to providing quality care through continued training and education.
Saved lives by administering medications, monitoring cardiac output and performing emergency intubations.
Responded quickly to medical emergencies to promote best possible health outcomes.
Evaluated patient response to treatments administered during transport to ensure optimal outcomes.
Performed standard testing and administered medication to manage care in field and in transit.
Treated patients suffering from heart attacks, strokes and motor vehicle accident injuries.
Provided emotional support for family members of critically ill or injured patients.
Explained each step of treatment to conscious patients to reduce fear and invoke calm.
Monitored patients from scene to hospital transfer while conducting in-transit care.
Organized supplies for ambulance runs including IV solutions, airway management equipment and medication kits.
Assessed scene on arrival to identify potential safety issues and hazards affecting first responders.
Collaborated with colleagues on shared cases to provide comprehensive treatment plans for patients.
Utilized proper safety precautions when handling hazardous materials or infectious substances.
Conducted equipment inspections and vehicle checks in adherence with required maintenance schedules.
Medical Services Journeyman
U.S. Air Force Active Duty
Travis AFB, California
04.1997 - 04.2001
Managed equipment maintenance schedules and coordinated repairs for operational readiness.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to support mission objectives effectively.
Trained junior personnel on standard operating procedures and best practices.
Developed efficient workflows for logistics and supply chain operations.
Facilitated communication between units to streamline operational processes.
Provided emergency medical care to patients in critical situations.
Operated and maintained medical equipment during emergencies.
Collaborated with healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety.
Communicated effectively with patients and families during emergencies.
Responded rapidly to emergency calls, ensuring timely intervention.
Assessed patient conditions and provided immediate medical care in urgent situations.
Collaborated with physicians to develop and implement treatment plans for patients.
Administered medications and monitored patient responses to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Educated patients on health management and post-care instructions for recovery.
Coordinated with other healthcare professionals to streamline patient care processes.
Collected, monitored and documented patient vital signs.
Assessed patient conditions, implemented care plans and reassessed conditions continuously.
Administered medications as prescribed by physicians.
Collaborated with interdisciplinary team to develop care plans for patients with complex medical needs.
Communicated and collaborated with healthcare team and patient to identify and meet physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Greeted and assessed patients' needs, complaints, and symptoms to provide appropriate care.
Ensured that all required documentation was completed prior to patient discharge from the clinic.
Monitored vital signs including temperature, pulse rate, respirations, blood pressure, height and weight and pain level.
Assisted with minor medical procedures such as suturing lacerations, splinting of fractures, administering injections, and performing EKGs.
Education
A.A.S. - Paramedicine
Flathead Valley Community College
Kalispell, MT
12.2010
CCEMTP - University of Maryland, Baltimore County Curriculum
Critical Care Emergency Medical Transport Program
MT
07.2006
Mobile Intensive Care Paramedic Certification -
Northern California Training Institute
Emeryville, CA
03.2001
Medical Services Technician (4NO51) -
United States Air Force
Sheppard AFB, TX
11.1997
General Studies -
University of Montana
Missoula, MT
12.1996
General Studies -
Montana State University
Bozeman, MT
06.1995
High School Diploma -
Florence-Carlton High School
Florence, MT
06.1994
Skills
Leadership
Budget management
Community engagement
Policy development
Emergency response planning
Compliance auditing
Risk assessment
Team building
Effective communication
Problem solving
Performance evaluation
Conflict resolution
Crisis communication
Media relations
Emergency medical services
Personnel management
Fire prevention
Interagency coordination
Public safety administration
Code enforcement
Building inspections
Damage, danger, and loss prevention
Fire department maintenance
Workload prioritization
Public safety
Active listening
Staff performance evaluation
Professional demeanor
Analytical thinking
Interpersonal communication
Fire department procedures
Attention to detail
Problem-solving
Strategic planning
Multitasking Abilities
Teamwork and collaboration
Continuous improvement
Affiliations
60th Medical Group Airman of the Year
Personal Achievement Award
Most Valuable Preceptor Award
Flight of the Year Award
Timeline
Deputy Fire Chief
Missoula Rural Fire District
12.2023 - Current
Accreditation Manager
Missoula Rural Fire District
10.2020 - 12.2023
Firefighter/Paramedic
Missoula Rural Fire District
04.2015 - 10.2020
Critical Care Flight Paramedic
St. Patrick Hospital/Northwest Medstar
03.2008 - 06.2015
Flight Paramedic
Kalispell Regional Medical Center
09.2003 - 06.2008
Fire Lieutenant/Firefighter/Paramedic Supervisor
Kalispell City Fire Department
03.2002 - 06.2008
Paramedic
Medic Ambulance Services
07.2001 - 02.2002
Medical Services Journeyman
U.S. Air Force Active Duty
04.1997 - 04.2001
A.A.S. - Paramedicine
Flathead Valley Community College
CCEMTP - University of Maryland, Baltimore County Curriculum