James Samels
Stow,OH
Summary
I am seeking a promotion to the position of City of Kent Fire Chief. My over 26 years of firefighting and EMS experience including 8 years of supervisory experience gives me a strong background and understanding of Kent Fire department operations. Currently, I am in the process of completing my Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration, which will increase my level of preparedness and abilities as a fire service leader.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Acting Fire Chief
City Of Kent
03.2023 - Current
- Prepared 2024 operating and capital budget
- Managed day-to-day operations
Fire Captain
City Of Kent
08.2021 - Current
- Commanded 9 firefighters and 1 Lieutenant operating 24 hour shifts
- Coordinated vehicle maintenance of fire department apparatus
- Kent Fire dispatch coordinator, working to implement policies, and procedures, including updating all MABAS alarms
Fire Lieutenant
City Of Kent
05.2015 - 08.2021
- Conducted firefighter performance evaluations
- Member of interview and hiring team since 2016
- Lead Coordinator of renovations for West Side Fire Station 2018-2022
Fire Prevention Lieutenant
City Of Kent
12.2012 - 05.2015
- Fire inspector
- Public education
- Plan review
Firefighter/Paramedic
City Of Kent
07.1997 - 12.2012
- Built strong relationships with other personnel as shift mentor
- Frontline first responder for emergency fire and EMS
Education
Bachelor of Science - Fire Administration
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, OH2025
Certificate - Firefighter Level II
Ohio Fire Academy
Reynoldsburg, OH10.1997
License - EMT-Paramedic
Akron General Paramedic Education
Akron, Ohio06.1996
Associate of Applied Science - Fire Protection Technology
The University of Akron
Akron, Ohio12.1994
Skills
- Leadership
- Communication
- 26 years of experience
- College education
- Strong work ethic
Timeline
Acting Fire Chief
City Of Kent
03.2023 - Current
Fire Captain
City Of Kent
08.2021 - Current
Fire Lieutenant
City Of Kent
05.2015 - 08.2021
Fire Prevention Lieutenant
City Of Kent
12.2012 - 05.2015
Firefighter/Paramedic
City Of Kent
07.1997 - 12.2012
Bachelor of Science - Fire Administration
Bowling Green State University
Certificate - Firefighter Level II
Ohio Fire Academy
License - EMT-Paramedic
Akron General Paramedic Education
Associate of Applied Science - Fire Protection Technology
The University of Akron
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