Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Additional Information
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Lawrence Montoya, Jr

Gallup,NM

Summary

Experience in budget management, grant writing, public relations, interpersonal communication skills, conflict resolution, supervising of fire and emergency personnel, responding to emergency scenes, diagram and sketching, report writing, scene documentation, and obtaining witness statements and interviews, as well as managing large-scale emergency scenes. Performs effective time management, multiple case management, high stress multi-tasking, delegation and use of resources, as well as computer skills, to include: Internet use, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Codepal, NMEMSTARS, 921Docs, Fire Engineering Training, CFI Trainer, and data entry.

Experienced professional with over 19 years of experience in the field of firefighting, to include special training and certifications in Fire Inspections and Fire Investigations. Excellent reputation for resolving problems, improving customer satisfaction, working well with others and establishing and maintaining strong relationships.

Overview

20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Fire Chief

McKinley County Fire & Rescue
2023.06 - 2024.05
  • Oversaw operation of 21 fire stations and 6 Battalions throughout McKinley County.
  • Prepared and submitted grant applications.
  • Reported to the Board of County Commissioners as necessary.
  • Improved emergency response times by implementing new dispatch procedures and optimizing resource allocation.
  • Enhanced firefighting strategies for better efficiency in extinguishing fires and reducing property damage.
  • Developed comprehensive training programs to ensure the continuous professional growth of firefighters and officers.
  • Managed department budget effectively, prioritizing essential equipment purchases and maintenance without compromising safety standards.
  • Implemented community outreach initiatives to promote fire safety awareness and prevent potential hazards.
  • Established strong relationships with local government officials to secure necessary funding and resources for the department''s needs.
  • Supervised incident command operations, ensuring proper coordination among on-scene personnel and effective communication with external agencies.
  • Reduced workplace injuries by enforcing strict adherence to safety protocols and conducting regular inspections of facilities and equipment.
  • Assessed department performance through detailed analysis of incident reports, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions when needed.
  • Conducted thorough investigations into fire incidents, working closely with law enforcement agencies to determine causes and identify responsible parties when necessary.
  • 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.
  • Updated standard operating procedures to reflect advancements in firefighting technology and best practices.
  • Optimized fire services management with introduction of new systems, policies, procedures and tools.

Fire Inspector/Investigator-Advanced

NM State Fire Marshal's Office
2013.03 - 2023.06
  • Conduct inspections and acceptance testing of newly installed fire protection systems.
  • Write detailed reports of fire inspections performed, fire code violations observed, and corrective recommendations offered.
  • Review and approve or reject plans regarding fire suppression efforts, to include wet chemical suppression systems, automatic sprinkler systems, and fire alarm and detection systems.
  • Attend training classes in order to maintain current knowledge of fire prevention, plans review, fire protection acceptance testing, legal, safety, and firefighting procedures.
  • Understand and recognize fire protection systems, and their proper or improper use.
  • Conduct technical fire investigation reports and testify as an expert, as necessary.
  • Conduct interviews, follow-up interviews, interrogations, and obtain statements from witnesses.
  • Write detailed fire investigation and inspection reports that include findings, with the inclusion of all data, pictures, evidence, burn patterns, and any other information pertinent to the investigation and/or inspection.
  • Maintain level of knowledge of up-to-date scientific findings related to fire investigations, fire prevention, safety, fire investigation, code enforcement, and firefighting procedures.
  • Improved fire investigation processes by collaborating with law enforcement agencies and insurance companies.
  • Conducted comprehensive interviews with witnesses, property owners, and first responders for accurate case documentation.
  • Prepared detailed reports on fire incidents, outlining investigation findings and potential safety recommendations.
  • Presented expert testimony in legal proceedings, providing credible information on the origin and cause of fires.
  • Evaluated fire alarm systems to ensure proper functionality, reducing response times during emergencies.
  • Promoted public safety by delivering presentations at community events on topics such as fire prevention strategies and emergency planning measures.
  • Assessed damage from fires, estimating financial losses for businesses and insurance claims processing purposes.
  • Strengthened professional networks by attending conferences and workshops focused on advancements in fire investigation methodologies.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of local building codes to identify potential hazards during inspections effectively.
  • Inspected physical condition of automatic sprinkler systems to report conditions and suggest repairs.
  • Recorded scene layout, damage and findings by drafting diagrams, numbering items and taking photographs.
  • Analyzed evidence and other information to determine probable cause of fire or explosion.
  • Provided expert testimony in court proceedings regarding relevant fire codes, safety concerns, findings of investigations and noted violations.
  • Identified safety concerns and documentable fire code violations in new constructions and existing structures.
  • Led over 80 investigations of fires to determine causes.

EMT-Intermediate

Taos County EMS
2012.08 - 2016.12
  • Conduct patient assessments and provide adequate treatment.
  • Properly document and record patient history, treatment, and outcomes.
  • Understands and utilizes body substance isolation.
  • Understands basic medical-legal principles.
  • Functions within the scope of care as defined by state, regional and local regulatory agencies.
  • Complies with regulations on the handling of the deceased, notifies authorities and arranges for transportation.
  • Operates and communicates on two way radio systems.
  • Documents calls of service, care given, patient assessments and other necessary information.
  • Provide emergency care and transportation of patients to proper medical facility.

EMT-Intermediate

Superior Ambulance Service, Inc
2012.05 - 2014.03
  • Provide emergency medical care to patients. 
  • Properly document and record patient assessment, treatment, and outcomes. 
  • Function in uncommon situations.
  • Has a basic understanding of stress response and methods to ensure personal well-being.
  • Understands and utilizes body substance isolation.
  • Understands basic medical-legal principles.
  • Functions within the scope of care as defined by state, regional and local regulatory agencies.
  • Complies with regulations on the handling of the deceased, notifies authorities and arranges for transportation.
  • Operates and communicates on two way radio systems.
  • Documents calls of service, care given, patient assessments and other necessary information.
  • Provide emergency care and transportation of patients to proper medical facility.
  • Perform daily truck and equipment inspections.

Firefighter-Deputy Fire Chief

San Miguel County
2004.05 - 2011.08
  • Assists the Fire Chief in the strategic planning and goal setting for Departmental long-range needs with respect to administration, operations, equipment, apparatus, facilities, and personnel; supervises the implementation of such plans.
  • Assists the Fire Chief in the formulation, issuance, and enforcement of Departmental rules, regulations, and procedures in accordance with Department polices for all department members; handles grievances, maintains Departmental discipline and the general conduct of assigned personnel.
  • Assists the Fire Chief in coordinating the preparation and presentation of the annual Department budget; the expenditure of Departmental appropriations; and the evaluation and recommendation for the purchase of new equipment and supplies.
  • Performs the duties of the Fire Chief in his/her absence; responds to alarms and may direct activities at the scenes of major incidents or perform the work of subordinate personnel as required.
  • Respond to fire scenes. Conduct initial fire investigation. Determine cause of fire. Ensure scene preservation, allocation of resources, and initial fire investigations.

Fire Science Instructor

Luna Community College
2009.01 - 2011.07
  • Instruct students in various areas of firefighting, including but not limited to, the Introduction to Firefighting, Hazardous Materials, Strategies and Tactics, Firefighter Leadership, and Fire Inspections.
  • Recruit and retain students to the Fire Science Program.
  • Instruct students both in the classroom and in the field.
  • Instruct students to the current NFPS Standards.
  • Teach all classes, as assigned or scheduled, and maintaining contractually-defined office hours that are supportive of students.
  • Ensure appropriate class preparation in support of all course objectives.
  • Adequately assess and evaluate student performance.
  • Adequately track and record student performance and outcomes.
  • Participate in meetings pertinent to faculty professional responsibilities.
  • Participate in strategic planning and program review.
  • Be knowledgeable of, and practice pedagogy and andragogy that supports a variety of learning styles and includes a wide range of instructional delivery systems.

Education

Fire Investigation: Interview And Testimony -

National Fire Academy
Emmitsburg, MD
12.2017

R0206: Fire Origin And Cause Determination Course -

National Fire Academy
Emmitsburg, MD
04.2017

SLOFIST Fatal Fire Death Investigation Course - Fatal Fire Death Investigations

San Luis Obispo Fire Investigation Strike Team
San Luis Obispo, CA
06.2016

NFA/FEMA Fire Inspection Principles, Emmitsburg, MD -

National Fire Academy
Emmitsburg, MD
02.2016

EMT-Intermediate License #04001664 -

New Mexico EMS Bureau
Santa Fe
08.2012

EMT-B Course EMT-I Course Emergency Medicine -

University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM
12.2011

Associate Of Applied Science - Fire Science

Luna Community College
Las Vegas, NM
05.2010

Leading Community Fire Prevention - VIP (Tested) - undefined

National Fire Academy
Emmitsburg, MD
09.2009

High School Diploma - undefined

Robertson High School
Las Vegas, NM
5.2004

Skills

  • Ambulance/Fire Apparatus Driving
  • Budget Analysis
  • Procurement regulations
  • Emergency care
  • Fire protection systems
  • Fireworks
  • Goal setting
  • Government
  • Fire & Life Safety Inspections
  • Instructing
  • Leadership
  • Complies with regulations
  • Strategic planning
  • Document review
  • Vital sign assessment
  • Document scanning
  • Status reports maintenance
  • Correspondence management
  • Building construction
  • Strong verbal communication
  • Personal protective equipment inspection and maintenance
  • Risk assessments
  • Reporting and documentation
  • Records management
  • Public speaking
  • Emergency Response Procedures
  • Fire prevention/education
  • Firefighting operations
  • Records Management
  • Fire suppression
  • Municipal Codes
  • Emergency Management
  • Building inspections
  • Rescue Operations
  • Investigation techniques
  • Staff Development
  • Training programs
  • Hazardous Materials Response
  • Decision-Making
  • Incident Command
  • Multitasking
  • Administration and management
  • Time management abilities
  • Task Prioritization
  • Fire response rescue direction
  • Team building
  • Incident Reporting
  • Organizational Skills
  • Safety enforcement
  • Attention to Detail

Affiliations

International Association of Arson Investigators, National Chapter, former member

International Association of Arson Investigators, former member

CFI Trainer.net, member

International Association of Arson Investigators, NM Chapter, former member

National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, former member

New Mexico EMT Association, member

New Mexico Activities Association, member

New Mexico Officials Association, member

Nee Mexico Fire Marshal’s Association, member

Additional Information

  • Inductee to the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society in 2009. 
  • Recipient of the Heroism in the Line of Duty Award in 2009 from Gallinas Volunteer Fire Department, Incident #2008-20. 
  • Awarded Outstanding Youth Citizen of the Year by the Las Vegas/San Miguel Chamber of Commerce in 2005. 
  • Awarded Firefighter of the Year by the Gallinas Volunteer Fire Department in 2005 and 2010. 
  • Attended the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland for professional development and having taken and successfully completed on-campus courses.

Certification

04/2024: VFIS Instructor Level-Program for Emergency Vehicle Driver Course Certification

01/2024: Taking Care Of Our Own, LODD Preparation, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

03/2021: ICC Fire Inspector II Certification

04/2019: ICC Fire Inspector I Certification

05/2018: National IAAI International Training Conference, Frisco, Texas

12/2017: NFA/FEMA Fire Investigation: Interview and Testimony, Emmitsburg, MD

08/2017: IAAI – Evidence Collection Technician Certification, Certificate No. 481

07/2017: IAAI – Fire Investigation Technician Certification

04/2017: NFA R0206: Fire Origin and Cause Determination Course, Emmitsburg, MD

2017: IAAI – NM Chapter Conference, Carlsbad, NM

06/2016: SLOFIST Fatal Fire Death Investigation Course, San Luis Obispo, CA

05/2016: IAAI – NM Chapter Conference. Smart Media, Forensic Evidence, Latent Print, And Electrical Causes as Incendiary Devices Course. Ruidoso, NM

05/2016: NMFFTA – IFSAC Fire Investigator I Certification, Socorro, NM

04/2016: FI-210 Wildland Fire Origin and Cause Investigation Course, Socorro, NM

03/2016: IAAI – Nevada Chapter Conference, Fatal Fire Investigations, Las Vegas, NV

02/2016: NFA/FEMA Fire Inspection Principles, Emmitsburg, MD

05/2015: NFFTA – Fireworks Training for the Fire Service, Socorro, NM

01/2015: CEVO 3 – Ambulance Vehicle Operations, Taos County Fire & EMS

05/2014: NMFFTA – Fireworks Training for the Fire Service, Socorro, NM

03/2014: NMFTA – Defensive Driving

01/2013: NM EMS Bureau – EMT-Intermediate License #04001664

12/2012: NREMT – National Registry Advanced EMT

02/2012: NM EMS Bureau – EMT Basic License #04001664

10/2011: NFA/FEMA – Q-118 Community Safety Educator

05/2011: NMFFTA – Rope Rescue: Awareness & Operations, Socorro, NM

02/2011: NMFFTA – Hose and Hydrant Testing

01/2011: NMFFTA – Basic Firefighter Emergency Medical Care, Socorro, NM

01/2011: S-130/S-190 Wildland Firefighter Course, NM State Forestry

09/2010: NMFFTA – IFSAC Hazardous Materials: Awareness & Ops., Socorro, NM

08/2010: NMFFTA – IFSAC Fire Inspector I Certification, Socorro, NM

01/2010: Elected into Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities & Colleges

12/2009: NFA/FEMA – Q-463: ICS-200, Basic NIMS ICS for Operational 1st Responders

12/2009: NFA/FEMA - Q-462: ICS-100, Intro. to ICS for Operational 1st Responders

09/2009: NFA/FEMA – Leading Community Fire Prevention – VIP, Emmitsburg, MD

09/2009: NMFFTA – Pump Operations and Hydraulics, Socorro, NM

09/2009: Community Fire Prevention, USDOHS & FEMA/USFA

05/2009: NMFFTA – IFSAC Fire Service Instructor I Certification, Socorro, NM

08/2008: NMFFTA – Vehicle Extrication, Socorro, NM

08/2006: NMFFTA – Structural Firefighting Practical Course

08/2006: NMFFTA – Structural Firefighting, Hands-On, Socorro, NM

03/2006: NM State Forestry – FI-110 Wildland Fire Observations and Origin Protection

08/2005: NMFFTA/GVFD – Verification of Completion for Firefighter I

08/2005: NMFFTA – Introduction to Firefighting, Socorro, NM (Tested)

Timeline

Fire Chief

McKinley County Fire & Rescue
2023.06 - 2024.05

Fire Inspector/Investigator-Advanced

NM State Fire Marshal's Office
2013.03 - 2023.06

EMT-Intermediate

Taos County EMS
2012.08 - 2016.12

EMT-Intermediate

Superior Ambulance Service, Inc
2012.05 - 2014.03

Fire Science Instructor

Luna Community College
2009.01 - 2011.07

Firefighter-Deputy Fire Chief

San Miguel County
2004.05 - 2011.08

Fire Investigation: Interview And Testimony -

National Fire Academy

R0206: Fire Origin And Cause Determination Course -

National Fire Academy

SLOFIST Fatal Fire Death Investigation Course - Fatal Fire Death Investigations

San Luis Obispo Fire Investigation Strike Team

NFA/FEMA Fire Inspection Principles, Emmitsburg, MD -

National Fire Academy

EMT-Intermediate License #04001664 -

New Mexico EMS Bureau

EMT-B Course EMT-I Course Emergency Medicine -

University of New Mexico

Associate Of Applied Science - Fire Science

Luna Community College

Leading Community Fire Prevention - VIP (Tested) - undefined

National Fire Academy

High School Diploma - undefined

Robertson High School

04/2024: VFIS Instructor Level-Program for Emergency Vehicle Driver Course Certification

01/2024: Taking Care Of Our Own, LODD Preparation, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

03/2021: ICC Fire Inspector II Certification

04/2019: ICC Fire Inspector I Certification

05/2018: National IAAI International Training Conference, Frisco, Texas

12/2017: NFA/FEMA Fire Investigation: Interview and Testimony, Emmitsburg, MD

08/2017: IAAI – Evidence Collection Technician Certification, Certificate No. 481

07/2017: IAAI – Fire Investigation Technician Certification

04/2017: NFA R0206: Fire Origin and Cause Determination Course, Emmitsburg, MD

2017: IAAI – NM Chapter Conference, Carlsbad, NM

06/2016: SLOFIST Fatal Fire Death Investigation Course, San Luis Obispo, CA

05/2016: IAAI – NM Chapter Conference. Smart Media, Forensic Evidence, Latent Print, And Electrical Causes as Incendiary Devices Course. Ruidoso, NM

05/2016: NMFFTA – IFSAC Fire Investigator I Certification, Socorro, NM

04/2016: FI-210 Wildland Fire Origin and Cause Investigation Course, Socorro, NM

03/2016: IAAI – Nevada Chapter Conference, Fatal Fire Investigations, Las Vegas, NV

02/2016: NFA/FEMA Fire Inspection Principles, Emmitsburg, MD

05/2015: NFFTA – Fireworks Training for the Fire Service, Socorro, NM

01/2015: CEVO 3 – Ambulance Vehicle Operations, Taos County Fire & EMS

05/2014: NMFFTA – Fireworks Training for the Fire Service, Socorro, NM

03/2014: NMFTA – Defensive Driving

01/2013: NM EMS Bureau – EMT-Intermediate License #04001664

12/2012: NREMT – National Registry Advanced EMT

02/2012: NM EMS Bureau – EMT Basic License #04001664

10/2011: NFA/FEMA – Q-118 Community Safety Educator

05/2011: NMFFTA – Rope Rescue: Awareness & Operations, Socorro, NM

02/2011: NMFFTA – Hose and Hydrant Testing

01/2011: NMFFTA – Basic Firefighter Emergency Medical Care, Socorro, NM

01/2011: S-130/S-190 Wildland Firefighter Course, NM State Forestry

09/2010: NMFFTA – IFSAC Hazardous Materials: Awareness & Ops., Socorro, NM

08/2010: NMFFTA – IFSAC Fire Inspector I Certification, Socorro, NM

01/2010: Elected into Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities & Colleges

12/2009: NFA/FEMA – Q-463: ICS-200, Basic NIMS ICS for Operational 1st Responders

12/2009: NFA/FEMA - Q-462: ICS-100, Intro. to ICS for Operational 1st Responders

09/2009: NFA/FEMA – Leading Community Fire Prevention – VIP, Emmitsburg, MD

09/2009: NMFFTA – Pump Operations and Hydraulics, Socorro, NM

09/2009: Community Fire Prevention, USDOHS & FEMA/USFA

05/2009: NMFFTA – IFSAC Fire Service Instructor I Certification, Socorro, NM

08/2008: NMFFTA – Vehicle Extrication, Socorro, NM

08/2006: NMFFTA – Structural Firefighting Practical Course

08/2006: NMFFTA – Structural Firefighting, Hands-On, Socorro, NM

03/2006: NM State Forestry – FI-110 Wildland Fire Observations and Origin Protection

08/2005: NMFFTA/GVFD – Verification of Completion for Firefighter I

08/2005: NMFFTA – Introduction to Firefighting, Socorro, NM (Tested)

Lawrence Montoya, Jr