Louis E. Sandoval

Battalion Chief

AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management

03.2018 - Current

Managed multiple Wildland Fire resources effectively, ensuring personnel were properly trained, equipped, and supervised for optimal performance.
Conducted periodic firefighter written performance evaluations and completed written recommendations on probationary firefighters.
Demonstrated strong leadership in high-pressure situations, successfully guiding teams through complex emergency incidents while minimizing risks to both responders and civilians.
Maintained high levels of readiness by regularly evaluating equipment inventory, personnel training, and overall resource availability within the Agency.
Oversaw budget management processes, ensuring proper allocation of resources while maintaining fiscal responsibility at all times.
Served as an effective liaison between firefighters under my command and upper-level administration to address concerns promptly while still upholding agency policies and procedures.
Reviewed fire reports and payroll entries of personnel and DOC officers to verify accuracy and completeness.
Oversaw scene operations and assigned firefighters to strategic locations.
Checked fire suppression equipment regularly and oversaw upkeep.
Assigned firefighters to jobs at strategic locations to facilitate and maximize application of firefighting tactics.
Developed scheduling and coordination of shift staffing levels, changes and activities.
Spearheaded innovative recruitment efforts that resulted in a more diverse workforce better representing the Crews environment.
Contributed to successful public education initiatives designed to increase community awareness of fire prevention measures and general safety practices.
Constantly cultivating a supportive work environment centered around mentorship and professional development opportunities.
Exemplified a commitment to excellence throughout my tenure as Battalion Chief, consistently receiving positive performance evaluations for my ability to deliver results within challenging environments.
Enhanced firefighter safety through the implementation of comprehensive training programs and adherence to strict safety guidelines.
Performed frequent inspections and drafted reports and plans for issues of importance.
Developed and executed strategic plans for department growth, including improvements in infrastructure, equipment, and staffing levels.
Determined how to deploy personnel during periods requiring special fire department response and assigned activities.
Oversaw the successful coordination of inter-agency communication during large-scale incidents, fostering collaboration among various public safety agencies.
Collaborated with neighboring jurisdictions on regional emergency preparedness plans to ensure seamless response capabilities across borders during large-scale events or disasters.
Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds, and station for proper order and condition.
Directed work of firefighters engaged in managing fires and other types of incidents.
Supervised station operations, maintaining inventory and liaising with vendors to secure necessary supplies.
Prepared and adjusted schedules to cover demand.
Assessed scenes, coordinated responses and communicated critical details to superiors through two-way radios.
Evaluated team performance and implemented strategies to close gaps in skills or knowledge.
Supervised and coordinated tactical methodology used in resolving emergencies and other situations.
Implemented comprehensive training operations, inspections and performance evaluations.
Managed and prioritized essential equipment purchases and maintenance without compromising safety standards.
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.
Updated standard operating procedures to reflect advancements in firefighting technology and best practices.
Successfully led large-scale emergency exercises, testing the readiness of personnel under high-pressure scenarios and identifying gaps in response capabilities.
Strengthened interdepartmental communication through regular meetings, improving collaboration on projects involving multiple divisions and or agencies and departments.
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.
Enhanced firefighting strategies for better efficiency in extinguishing fires and reducing property damage.
Collaborated with neighboring departments for seamless interoperability during large-scale emergencies or natural disasters.
Developed comprehensive training programs to ensure the continuous professional growth of firefighters and officers.
Oversaw proper implementation of best practices, policies and procedures in alignment with regulations and operational needs.
Assessed department performance through detailed analysis of incident reports, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions when needed.
Established a mentoring program for newer firefighters that increased their skills development rate significantly.
Coordinated, scheduled and maintained team resources to achieve top levels of operational readiness.
Implemented data-driven strategies to reduce property loss and damage in the community due to fires and other emergencies.
Promoted a culture of continuous improvement within the department by encouraging feedback from all personnel and prioritizing ongoing training opportunities.
Conducted thorough incident investigations to identify root causes and determine necessary corrective actions for future prevention.
Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
Communication skills, both verbal and written.
Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
Strong work ethic.
Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.