Joshua Mena
Lake Worth
Summary
Dynamic leader and skilled communicator with extensive experience at Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. Excelled in fire prevention, emergency response, and fostering teamwork. Achieved significant improvements in firefighter safety and operational efficiency. Proficient in incident command and emergency medical treatment, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and continuous professional development.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Fire Lieutenant
Palm Beach County Fire Rescue
06.2017 - Current
- Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds, and stations for proper order and condition.
- Prepared reports of fires, equipment and personnel.
- Increased firefighter safety by enforcing strict adherence to department policies and procedures during emergency operations.
- Collaborated with other fire departments for mutual aid support during major incidents, augmenting available resources as needed to ensure public safety objectives were met efficiently.
- Mentored new firefighters, fostering a positive work environment conducive to professional growth and development.
- Created comprehensive pre-incident planning documents to facilitate efficient responses in high-risk environments.
- Conducted thorough post-incident analysis sessions, utilizing lessons learned to refine operational guidelines and enhance future responses in similar situations.
- Conducted periodic firefighter written performance evaluations and completed written recommendations on probationary firefighters.
- Established effective communication channels between command staff and frontline responders during high-pressure incidents, ensuring clear directives and information sharing.
- Cultivated a culture of continuous improvement through ongoing professional development opportunities for firefighters under my supervision.
- Supervised cleaning and maintenance of buildings, rooms and equipment.
- Evaluated personnel performance regularly, providing constructive feedback and identifying individual strengths to match skill sets with appropriate assignments.
- Oversaw inventory management processes for station supplies and equipment, maintaining adequate levels while minimizing waste or excess spending.
- Enhanced firefighting strategies by conducting regular reviews of incident reports and analyzing trends.
- Coordinated large-scale emergency exercises, simulating realistic scenarios to assess department readiness and identify areas requiring improvement.
- Improved fire personnel response times by implementing efficient training programs and drills.
- Served as a liaison between the fire department and local media outlets, providing timely updates on incidents and communicating public safety messages in a clear, accurate manner.
- Streamlined equipment maintenance processes, ensuring optimal performance during critical situations.
- Responded to emergency medical calls to perform lifesaving procedures and other emergency medical services.
- Compiled and maintained log books, run reports and training records.
- Made daily inspections of facilities and equipment.
- Led team in fighting fires and exercised considerable judgment in deciding best way to extinguish based on type of fuel and environment.
- Preserved order and discipline among subordinates and gave assignments and instructions.
- Oversaw scene operations and assigned firefighters to strategic locations.
- Oversaw proper implementation of best practices, policies and procedures in alignment with regulations and operational needs.
- Inspected stations, uniforms and vehicles regularly for signs of maintenance needs or general professionalism.
- Assessed scenes, coordinated responses and communicated critical details to superiors through two-way radios.
- Inspected buildings to determine fire risk and advise owners on prevention methods.
- Coordinated, scheduled and maintained team resources to achieve top levels of operational readiness.
- Prepared and adjusted schedules to cover demand.
- Evaluated team performance and implemented strategies to close gaps in skills or knowledge.
- Optimized fire services management with introduction of new systems, policies, procedures and tools.
Firefighter
Palm Beach County Fire Rescue
06.2014 - 06.2017
- 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.
- Evaluated situation at emergency sites to determine and execute most effective methods for saving life and property.
- Participated in physical fitness and training programs to maintain preparedness and stamina for fire rescues.
- 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.
- Educated public and community members on fire safety and prevention methods to provide life-saving techniques.
- 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.
- Maintained meticulous records of incident responses, ensuring accurate documentation for reporting purposes and future reference.
- Strengthened interdepartmental relationships through participation in joint training exercises with neighboring fire departments.
- Provided compassionate support to victims of fires or accidents through emotional reassurance and practical assistance such as finding temporary housing or connecting them with support services.
- 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.
- Led team in high-risk rescues, safely evacuating individuals from hazardous environments.
- Optimized response times to emergency calls by analyzing and adjusting deployment strategies.
- Streamlined maintenance and readiness of firefighting equipment, ensuring optimal performance during calls.
- Engaged in continuous professional development through advanced firefighting and rescue training courses.
- Implemented fitness program for fire station, boosting physical readiness and team morale.
- Provided compassionate support to individuals and families affected by fire incidents, aiding in their recovery process.
- Coordinated with local schools to conduct fire drills, ensuring students and staff were prepared for real-life emergencies.
- Enhanced team communication and efficiency during emergency responses with introduction of new radio protocols.
- Provided immediate medical attention to victims at emergency scenes, ensuring swift stabilization before hospital transport.
- Assisted in development of emergency response plans for local businesses, strengthening community preparedness.
- Assisted in securing grants for new fire safety equipment, improving department's operational capabilities.
- Improved fire station operations and response strategies through regular review and process optimization.
- Conducted thorough investigations of fire scenes to determine causes, contributing to prevention efforts.
- Collaborated with law enforcement and other emergency services during large-scale emergencies for coordinated response efforts.
- Reduced property damage from fires with quick and strategic firefighting tactics.
- 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.
- Laid and connected hoses, held nozzles and directed water streams as part of fire suppression activities at active scenes.
- Completed training to stay in peak physical fitness and handle challenging tasks.
- 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.
- Assisted in prevention of fires through public education programs.
- Performed maintenance on water tanks, fire hoses and other firefighting equipment.
- 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.
- Inspected alarms, hydrants, sprinkler systems and standpipe systems for operational use to minimize incidents.
- Evaluated areas after containing fires to identify and suppress hot spots.
- Diagnosed and located hazardous materials and other sources of fires.
- Inspected fire and life safety systems and equipment for proper placement at properties.
- Carried out fire inspections to identify fire hazards and recommend corrective measures.
- Contributed to fire investigation reports and provided testimony in court.
First Responder
Palm Beach County Fire Rescue
06.2014 - 06.2017
- Navigated complex traffic conditions safely to ensure timely arrival at emergency scenes while minimizing risks associated with high-speed driving.
- Developed strong working relationships with local hospitals and medical facilities, ensuring streamlined transfers of patients requiring further treatment.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to continually enhance knowledge and skills relevant to the role of a first responder.
- Demonstrated strong decision-making capabilities in dynamic, high-stakes situations by evaluating risks and selecting optimal courses of action.
- Reduced injury rates during rescues through rigorous adherence to safety protocols and proper use of personal protective equipment.
- Provided medical aid such as CPR, AED, spinal drainage, ventilation, and controlled bleeding to stabilize patient conditions.
- Maintained optimal functionality of critical equipment, performing routine inspections and coordinating necessary repairs or replacements as needed.
- Increased team cohesiveness by fostering a supportive work environment, promoting open communication, and providing constructive feedback.
- Conducted thorough incident debriefings to identify areas for improvement and implement new strategies or procedures as needed.
- Expedited incident resolution by swiftly assessing situations and determining appropriate courses of action based on established guidelines.
- Enhanced patient care quality by regularly participating in training sessions and staying up-to-date with first aid best practices.
- Managed stressful situations with composure while maintaining professionalism under intense pressure.
- Transferred patients to emergency units of local hospitals.
- Provided compassionate care to patients during transport, monitoring vital signs and administering life-saving interventions when necessary.
- Utilized advanced technical equipment effectively during rescue operations, such as extrication tools or defibrillators.
- Exceeded established performance benchmarks consistently, showcasing dedication to excellence in all aspects of the first responder role.
- Administered oxygen, oral glucose and activated charcoal to patients.
- Served as an effective liaison between multiple agencies during joint operations, facilitating seamless coordination and information sharing.
- Improved emergency response times by streamlining communication protocols and refining dispatch procedures.
- Assisted in disaster preparedness efforts, conducting risk assessments and developing contingency plans for various emergency scenarios.
- Prioritized tasks efficiently in high-pressure environments to optimize response efforts and allocate resources appropriately.
- Drove to over Number scenes in Year and provided basic life support to victims of various injuries and accidents.
- Collaborated with fellow first responders for efficient management of mass casualty incidents, ensuring the safety of all involved parties.
- Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to provide quality patient care.
- Administered CPR, oxygen and other life-saving medical treatments.
- Assisted with lifting and moving patients.
- Followed all safety protocols and took necessary precautions while providing care.
- Responded to 911 calls for medical emergencies.
- Delivered emotional support to patients and families.
- Assessed medical conditions of patients in pre-hospital settings.
- Handled patient transfers from one medical facility to another.
- Collaborated with medical doctors and other healthcare professionals.
- Immobilized patient for placement on stretcher and ambulance transport.
- Observed patient behavior to report changes to medical personnel.
- Trained new EMTs on proper protocols and procedures.
- Transported patients to medical facilities and provided transportation to follow-up appointments.
- Conducted patient intake and triage procedures.
- Utilized communication devices to maintain contact with supervisors.
- Educated public on emergency medical services.
- Dispensed medications and monitored patient reactions.
- Performed medical tests and collected samples for laboratory analysis.
- Provided patient families with post-medical care instructions.
Flight Medic
Life Flight
06.2005 - 06.2014
- Assisted in the safe transport of critically ill patients, ensuring proper monitoring and stabilization throughout the flight.
- Demonstrated expertise in managing complex trauma cases while working under pressure in confined spaces.
- Ensured optimal inventory levels of essential medical supplies, enabling rapid deployment when necessary.
- Conducted thorough post-flight debriefings to identify areas for improvement in future missions.
- Prepared detailed patient care reports after each mission for accurate record-keeping and follow-up care coordination.
- Managed medical equipment on the aircraft, performing routine checks and maintenance to ensure functionality during critical situations.
- Monitored usage of equipment and supplies, reported medical equipment failures and maintained necessary supplies onboard aircraft to deliver care.
- Streamlined patient assessment processes, identifying urgent needs and prioritizing interventions accordingly.
- Enhanced patient care by providing advanced life support during emergency medical situations.
- Mentored new Flight Medics joining the team, sharing valuable insights and experiences to support their professional growth.
- Promoted a culture of safety within the team by adhering strictly to company protocols and industry guidelines.
- Participated in community outreach programs and events, promoting public awareness about the importance of emergency medical services.
- Cultivated strong relationships with local hospitals and first responders to optimize efficiency during multi-agency responses.
- Prioritized care from initial patient contact through relinquishing care to hospital staff to obtain best possible outcomes.
- Reduced response times by efficiently preparing aircraft for emergency medical flights, including pre-flight checks and equipment setup.
- Assessed extent of injuries or illnesses to provide direction for medical procedures once in hospital setting.
- Followed guidelines for administration of advanced cardiac life support and medications and intubation of compromised airways.
- Collaborated with flight crew and ground personnel to coordinate seamless patient handoffs and transport logistics.
- Delivered basic, advanced and critical care to injured and ill patients traveling to hospital trauma centers via aircraft.
- Regularly attended conferences and seminars related to the field of Flight Medicine, expanding knowledge base for improved performance on duty.
- Contributed to improved patient outcomes through skilled administration of medications, intubation, defibrillation, and other critical procedures.
- Complied with safety regulations to maintain well-being of flight crew and patients.
- Participated in ongoing training courses to stay current on best practices in air medical services and flight medicine techniques.
- Provided compassionate care for diverse populations, tailoring treatment plans based on individual needs and cultural backgrounds.
- Maintained clear communication with pilots to ensure smooth operations during high-stress situations.
- Identified opportunities for process improvements within the department''s operational procedures leading to enhanced efficiency.
- Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to provide quality patient care.
- Administered CPR, oxygen and other life-saving medical treatments.
- Assisted with lifting and moving patients.
- Followed all safety protocols and took necessary precautions while providing care.
- Responded to 911 calls for medical emergencies.
- Delivered emotional support to patients and families.
- Assessed medical conditions of patients in pre-hospital settings.
- Handled patient transfers from one medical facility to another.
- Collaborated with medical doctors and other healthcare professionals.
- Immobilized patient for placement on stretcher and ambulance transport.
- Observed patient behavior to report changes to medical personnel.
- Trained new EMTs on proper protocols and procedures.
- Transported patients to medical facilities and provided transportation to follow-up appointments.
- Conducted patient intake and triage procedures.
- Utilized communication devices to maintain contact with supervisors.
- Coordinated with treatment center personnel to obtain patients' vital statistics and medical history.
- Dispensed medications and monitored patient reactions.
- Performed medical tests and collected samples for laboratory analysis.
- Provided patient families with post-medical care instructions.
Education
CSU
AA - Fire Science
Miami Dade College
Miami, FL06.2014
Skills
- Fire prevention
- Firefighter safety
- Technical rescue
- Incident command
- Emergency medical treatment
- Standard operating procedures
- Emergency management
- Hazardous materials handling
- Fire department maintenance
- Hazardous materials response
- Fire service
- Administration and management
- Emergency medical services
- Fire investigation
- EMS expertise
- Incident safety
- Life and property protection
- First response services
- Emergency response procedures
- Facility and equipment maintenance
- Fire response rescue direction
- Emergency response
- Fire inspection investigations
- Fire inspection suppression
- Staff performance evaluation
- Staff development and leadership
- Fire response team direction
- Firefighting procedures
- Fire strategy
- Fire department procedures
- Firefighting operations
- Teamwork
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Problem-solving abilities
- Multitasking
- Multitasking Abilities
- Reliability
- Organizational skills
- Excellent communication
- Team collaboration
- Effective communication
- Crew leadership
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Decision-making
- Emergency vehicle operation
- Relationship building
- Safety management
- Task prioritization
- Equipment operation
- Crew training
- Interpersonal skills
- Public safety
- CPR certified
- Incident reporting
- Operational procedures
- Time management abilities
- Adaptability
- Safety enforcement
- Performance monitoring
Certification
Fire Fighter I/II
CPR
Timeline
Fire Lieutenant
Palm Beach County Fire Rescue
06.2017 - Current
Firefighter
Palm Beach County Fire Rescue
06.2014 - 06.2017
First Responder
Palm Beach County Fire Rescue
06.2014 - 06.2017
Flight Medic
Life Flight
06.2005 - 06.2014
Fire Fighter I/II
CPR
CSU
AA - Fire Science
Miami Dade College
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