Jason Merritt
Morganton,NC
Summary
Seasoned fire service leader with a distinguished career across various roles, including Fire Chief at Town of Stanley, where I enhanced operational efficiency and community safety. Expert in emergency response operations and crisis management leadership, I excel in workforce development and interdepartmental coordination, significantly reducing workplace injuries and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Diligent fire service leader with comprehensive background as Fire Captain leading emergency response teams. Proven ability to manage high-pressure situations and coordinate effectively during critical incidents. Demonstrated skills in leadership and strategic planning to enhance operational efficiency.
Professional firefighter with strong leadership abilities, adept at managing emergency situations and ensuring safety. Proven track record in team collaboration, effective communication, and strategic decision-making. Skilled in fire suppression, rescue operations, and training personnel to meet high standards. Dependable and adaptable under pressure, focused on achieving optimal results.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Fire Captain
Charlotte Fire Department
07.2000 - Current
- Mentored new firefighters in developing essential skills and understanding departmental expectations for performance excellence.
- Led a team of firefighters in extinguishing hazardous material fires, minimizing environmental impact and potential harm to nearby residents.
- Improved firefighter safety through consistent training sessions and adherence to established guidelines.
- Compiled and maintained log books, run reports and training records.
- Conducted periodic firefighter written performance evaluations and completed written recommendations on probationary firefighters.
- Managed personnel schedules, ensuring adequate staffing for optimal response times during emergencies.
- Preserved order and discipline among subordinates and gave assignments and instructions.
Fire Chief
Town of Stanley
01.2012 - 05.2015
- 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.
- Reduced workplace injuries by enforcing strict adherence to safety protocols and conducting regular inspections of facilities and equipment.
- Optimized fire services management with introduction of new systems, policies, procedures and tools.
- 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.
- Collaborated with neighboring departments for seamless interoperability during large-scale emergencies or natural disasters.
- Implemented community outreach initiatives to promote fire safety awareness and prevent potential hazards.
- Inspected buildings to determine fire risk and advise owners on prevention methods.
Airport Firefighter
N.C. Department of Crime Control & Public Safety
09.1997 - 06.2000
- Collaborated with local agencies during emergency responses to enhance effectiveness of rescue operations.
- Participated in regular training drills by practicing firefighting techniques and emergency response scenarios.
- Promoted fire prevention initiatives with local organizations to enhance community safety and preparedness.
- Coordinated repairs and servicing of tools and vehicles to minimize downtime and ensure operational efficiency.
- Operated firefighting equipment and tools to extinguish fires and protect property from extensive damage.
- Maintained optimal readiness for emergency situations by regularly participating in drills and training exercises.
Damage Control Petty Officer
United States Navy
06.1994 - 06.1997
- Streamlined communication during crisis scenarios by establishing efficient information-sharing channels.
- Upheld a high standard of professionalism within the Damage Control division, serving as a model for other crew members to emulate.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement within the Damage Control division, driving process enhancements over time.
- Contributed to overall mission success through diligent oversight of all aspects of shipboard damage control efforts.
- Increased operational readiness, coordinating repair efforts during emergency situations.
Education
Master of Science - Fire Executive Leadership
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL12-2026
Bachelor of Science - Fire Administration
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL12-2024
Associate of Science - Fire Science
Central Piedmont Community College
Charlotte, NC05-2020
Skills
- Crisis Management Leadership
- Emergency Response Operations
- Effective Workload Management
- Emergency Fire Response
- Disaster Preparedness Planning
- Interdepartmental Coordination
- Workforce Development
- Networking and Relationship Management
- Decision-making
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Effective communication
- Organizational skills
Affiliations
- National Fire Academy Alumni
- International Association of Firefighters
Certification
- Hazardous Materials Technician Level.
- Water Rescue Technician Certification - Rescue 3 International.
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) - National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians.
- High Angle Rescue Technician – State or local government emergency services department.
- Emergency Vehicle Operator Course Certificate (EVOC) – Various state and local agencies.
- Swiftwater Rescue Technician Level I & II Certifications – Rescue 3 International or similar body.
- Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) Certification – Federal Aviation Administration approved program.
- Incident Command System Certification (ICS) - Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
- Rope Rescue Technician Level I & II Certifications - State or local government emergency services department.
- Confined Space Rescue Technician Certification - Technical Rescue Association.
- Trench Rescue Technician – State, local, or private training organizations specializing in technical rescue.
- Structural Collapse Operations Level I & II Certifications - State or local government emergency services department.
- Public Safety Diver
- Pump Operator Certificate – Various firefighting training institutes or community colleges.
- Pro Board Fire Service Professional Qualifications System Certification - National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications.
Languages
English
Full Professional
Timeline
Fire Chief
Town of Stanley
01.2012 - 05.2015
Fire Captain
Charlotte Fire Department
07.2000 - Current
Airport Firefighter
N.C. Department of Crime Control & Public Safety
09.1997 - 06.2000
Damage Control Petty Officer
United States Navy
06.1994 - 06.1997
Master of Science - Fire Executive Leadership
Columbia Southern University
Bachelor of Science - Fire Administration
Columbia Southern University
Associate of Science - Fire Science
Central Piedmont Community College
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