Justin Derr
Colchester ,CT
Summary
As a seasoned Fire Fighter and Combat Medic, I excel in personnel training and emergency response, significantly enhancing team efficiency and patient survival rates. At East Hampton Fire, I spearheaded innovative training programs, which markedly improved both skills and community safety.
My leadership and technical expertise in high-stress situations reflect my commitment to excellence and teamwork. As a confident firefighter, I thrive in cohesive team environments and possess strong mechanical aptitude, alongside a solid background in medical response and fire suppression. I effectively handle issues and resolve conflicts, ensuring a smooth operational flow.
In my role with Colchester Fire and EMS, I have dedicated myself to being an experienced firefighter and burn tender, specializing in assessing fire conditions and providing hands-on training for surrounding departments. I am passionate about fostering a culture of safety and teamwork and am eager to further develop my abilities as an instructor in the fire service, particularly in training and mentoring new recruits.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Firefighter Cadet Advisor
Colchester Fire and EMS
08.2023 - Current
- 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.
- Demonstrated strong leadership skills while serving as a mentor to new firefighters, fostering a culture of teamwork and professionalism within the department.
- Utilized technical expertise in operating specialized firefighting equipment such as aerial ladders, hydraulic extrication tools, and thermal imaging cameras.
- Trained new firefighters to comply with safety protocols and equipment usage.
- Participated in physical fitness and training programs to maintain preparedness and stamina for fire rescues.
- Trained new recruits in fire suppression techniques, improving team efficiency and readiness.
Firefighter/EMT
Colchester Fire and EMS
08.2023 - Current
- 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.
- Trained new firefighters to comply with safety protocols and equipment usage.
HVAC Technician /welder
Tucker Mechanical
01.2022 - Current
- Performed troubleshooting on HVAC systems to determine root cause of issues.
- Installed new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in residential and commercial buildings with precision and attention to detail.
- Troubleshot complex HVAC problems, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
- Utilized diagnostic equipment effectively in order to identify malfunctioning components within HVAC systems accurately.
- Conducted maintenance service on HVAC systems to increase life expectancy of equipment and prevent costly repair work.
Firefighter/EMT
East Hampton Fire
12.2004 - 10.2018
- 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.
- Demonstrated strong leadership skills while serving as a mentor to new firefighters, fostering a culture of teamwork and professionalism within the department.
- Utilized technical expertise in operating specialized firefighting equipment such as aerial ladders, hydraulic extrication tools, and thermal imaging cameras.
68W Combat Medic
US Army
01.2003 - 12.2011
- Enhanced operational capabilities within the unit through continuous professional development in advanced trauma care techniques.
- Contributed to the development of operational plans by providing expert input on medical logistics, casualty evacuation procedures, and force health protection measures.
- Safeguarded fellow soldiers'' health through administering immunizations and monitoring their ongoing health status during deployments.
- Reduced recovery time for injured soldiers through effective triage and emergency medical treatment.
- Increased soldier morale by addressing mental health concerns promptly, connecting them to appropriate resources and support networks.
- Enhanced patient survival rates by providing immediate and efficient first aid care on the battlefield.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes in high-stress combat situations.
- Assisted physicians in surgical procedures, ensuring proper sterilization techniques were followed for optimal patient safety.
- Streamlined patient transport processes, coordinating with other units to ensure timely evacuation of injured personnel from the battlefield to higher echelons of care.
- Increased unit readiness by conducting regular training sessions on first aid, CPR, and casualty evacuation procedures.
Fire Officer/ LT
East Hampton Fire
- Conducted public education campaigns regarding fire prevention strategies targeting schools, businesses, and community organizations alike.
- Contributed to regional emergency planning efforts by actively participating in interagency meetings and joint training exercises.
- Evaluated firefighter performance regularly, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement while maintaining high morale within the team.
- Managed incident scenes effectively, ensuring the safety of all personnel and minimizing property damage.
- Developed and executed comprehensive training programs for firefighters, resulting in increased skills and knowledge.
- Trained new hires on departmental policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure a seamless integration into the team.
- Increased firefighter preparedness by conducting regular equipment checks, maintenance, and replacement as needed.
Education
Fire 1 / Fire 2 - Fire Service
Eastern Connecticut Fire School
Willimantic, CTSkills
- Personnel Training
- Performance Evaluation
- Training Oversight
- New Employee Training
- Coaching and Mentoring
- Burn Tender / Advisor
Certification
Firefighter 1 5/8/2004
Firefighter 2 5/31/2014
Fire Service Instructor 1 3/21/2015
Station Evaluator Training 2/28/2015
EMT- B 9/18/2006
Combat Lifesaver Course 5/15/2006
S2 Unlimited Journey Person 7/30/2014
Combat Medic 68w10 7/3/2008
Timeline
Firefighter Cadet Advisor
Colchester Fire and EMS
08.2023 - Current
Firefighter/EMT
Colchester Fire and EMS
08.2023 - Current
HVAC Technician /welder
Tucker Mechanical
01.2022 - Current
Firefighter/EMT
East Hampton Fire
12.2004 - 10.2018
68W Combat Medic
US Army
01.2003 - 12.2011
Fire Officer/ LT
East Hampton Fire
Fire 1 / Fire 2 - Fire Service
Eastern Connecticut Fire School