Mark Garling
Mont Alto,PA
Summary
Dynamic retired Captain from the DOD Department of Defense, skilled in fire suppression and interagency collaboration. Proven track record in enhancing firefighter safety and community outreach, while mentoring teams to achieve operational excellence. Adept at implementing fire prevention strategies, fostering a culture of professionalism and teamwork.
Highly skilled firefighting professional equipped for leadership and operational demands. Proven capability in emergency response, fire suppression, and rescue operations. Strong emphasis on team collaboration, adaptability, and achieving mission-critical results. Renowned for effective communication, strategic planning, and situational awareness in high-stress environments.
Overview
47
47
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Volunteer Firefighter "Fire Chief"
Mont Alto Volunteer Fire Department
Mont Alto, PA
06.1979 - Current
- Responded to emergency calls, providing rapid response and effective firefighting techniques.
- Conducted fire safety inspections, identifying hazards and recommending preventive measures.
- Operated firefighting equipment and tools, ensuring readiness for emergency situations.
- Collaborated with team members during drills, enhancing communication and operational efficiency.
- Mentored new volunteers, fostering skills development in firefighting protocols and safety practices.
- Led community outreach programs, promoting fire safety awareness among local residents.
- Developed training materials for ongoing education on fire prevention and safety standards.
- Analyzed incident reports to improve response strategies and operational procedures.
- Enhanced teamwork among the crew by participating in regular training sessions, drills, and exercises.
- Collaborated closely with fellow firefighters to ensure smooth communication and coordination during emergencies.
- Assisted in reducing property damage during fires with strategic placement of ladders, hoses, and other firefighting equipment.
- Administered first aid and conducted emergent response management.
- Minimized risk of accidents on scene by following established protocols regarding traffic control management.
- Strengthened firefighter skills through ongoing professional development opportunities such as attending workshops or conferences related to the field.
- Upheld high levels of readiness while on call, ensuring timely response to any potential emergencies.
- Supported strong relationships between the fire department and neighboring agencies through collaborative efforts during multi-unit training simulations.
- Improved community safety by conducting fire prevention presentations and distributing educational materials to local schools and organizations.
- Provided swift medical assistance to injured individuals on scene as a certified first responder until paramedics arrived.
- Served as a role model to aspiring firefighters through mentorship, training support, and sharing of professional experiences.
- Expedited emergency response times by maintaining accurate knowledge of local streets, roads, and landmarks.
- Enhanced internal communication within the department by contributing valuable input at regular meetings and debriefings.
- Increased public awareness about fire safety through participation in community events and media interviews.
- Demonstrated adaptability during crises by adjusting tactics based on changing conditions or new information.
- Assessed and repaired fire extinguishers and various fire equipment for stations.
- Operated fire hoses, hydrants and extinguishers to eliminate fire and prevent from spreading.
- Responded to emergency medical calls to perform lifesaving procedures and other emergency medical services.
- Participated in physical fitness and training programs to maintain preparedness and stamina for fire rescues.
- Oversaw equipment and vehicle upkeep to maintain emergency readiness.
- Initiated first aid measures to alleviate further injury and prepared victims for transport to medical facilities.
- 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.
- Monitored and responded to hazardous gas levels and smoke detectors to avoid injuries and fatalities.
- Participated in community outreach programs to raise awareness of fire prevention and safety measures.
- Assisted with regular maintenance of firefighting equipment.
- Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds, and stations for proper order and condition.
- Operated hoses, pumps, ladders and other firefighting equipment.
- Laid and connected hoses, held nozzles and directed water streams as part of fire suppression activities at active scenes.
- Responded to emergency calls and provided medical assistance to injured individuals.
- Conducted fire drills and trained new recruits in use of firefighting equipment.
- Evaluated areas after containing fires to identify and suppress hot spots.
- Performed maintenance on water tanks, fire hoses and other firefighting equipment.
- Prepared incident reports detailing personnel, location and results of each call.
- Effectively supported fire suppression by setting up and maintaining water supply lines.
- Conducted thorough tests and inspections of gear, equipment and tools to stay ready for every type of fire.
- Inspected alarms, hydrants, sprinkler systems and standpipe systems for operational use to minimize incidents.
- Assisted in prevention of fires through public education programs.
- Completed training to stay in peak physical fitness and handle challenging tasks.
- Diagnosed and located hazardous materials and other sources of fires.
- Maintained close contact with dispatch to receive and share information about current fires, equipment movements, and incoming personnel.
- Provided station tours, pre-incident surveys and installed smoke detectors to provide fire education to public.
- Contributed to fire investigation reports and provided testimony in court.
- 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.
- Directed fire prevention programs to enhance community safety and awareness.
- Managed emergency response operations, ensuring effective resource allocation and coordination.
- Developed training initiatives for fire personnel, promoting skill enhancement and teamwork.
- Implemented strategic plans for equipment upgrades, improving operational efficiency and readiness.
- Collaborated with local agencies to establish mutual aid agreements and protocols.
- Analyzed incident reports to identify trends and improve response strategies across the department.
- Oversaw budget management processes, aligning resources with organizational priorities and goals.
- Fostered a culture of safety through regular drills, evaluations, and risk assessments in the department.
- 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.
- Supervised incident command operations, ensuring proper coordination among on-scene personnel and effective communication with external agencies.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Organized department-wide training sessions on mental health and wellness, resulting in improved morale and reduced burnout rates among firefighters.
- 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.
- 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.
- Implemented community outreach initiatives to promote fire safety awareness and prevent potential hazards.
- Improved the efficiency of equipment maintenance by creating a centralized tracking system, ensuring timely repairs and replacements.
- Improved emergency response times by implementing new dispatch procedures and optimizing resource allocation.
- Directed work of [Number] firefighters engaged in extinguishing fires.
- Implemented comprehensive training operations, inspections and performance evaluations.
- Coordinated, scheduled and maintained team resources to achieve top levels of operational readiness.
- Created a streamlined process for handling permit applications, expediting approval times while maintaining compliance with applicable codes and regulations.
- Conducted periodic firefighter written performance evaluations and completed written recommendations on probationary firefighters.
- Supervised cleaning and maintenance of buildings, rooms and equipment.
- Supervised firehouse operations, maintaining inventory and liaising with vendors to secure necessary supplies.
- Conducted thorough investigations into fire incidents, working closely with law enforcement agencies to determine causes and identify responsible parties when necessary.
- Championed diversity within the department by actively recruiting minority candidates and fostering an inclusive work environment.
- Assessed scenes, coordinated responses and communicated critical details to superiors through two-way radios.
- Oversaw scene operations and assigned firefighters to strategic locations.
- Prepared and adjusted schedules to cover demand.
- Inspected buildings to determine fire risk and advise owners on prevention methods.
- Inspected stations, uniforms and vehicles regularly for signs of maintenance needs or general professionalism.
- Created fire prevention courses to educate general public.
- Assigned firefighters to jobs at strategic locations to facilitate rescue of persons and maximize application of extinguishing agents.
- Evaluated team performance and implemented strategies to close gaps in skills or knowledge.
- Checked fire suppression equipment regularly and oversaw upkeep.
- Evaluated situation at emergency sites to determine and execute most effective methods for saving life and property.
- Drove and operated structural pumpers, tankers, ladders, and service vehicles to aid in rescue operations.
- Documented emergency calls and equipment maintenance to enable tracking history and maintain accurate records.
- Trained new firefighters to comply with safety protocols and equipment usage.
Retired Career Firefighter "Captain"
DOD Department of Defense
Arlington, VA
06.1996 - 06.2021
- Participated in training sessions on fire safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
- Assisted in maintaining firefighting equipment and tools to ensure operational readiness.
- Collaborated with team members during drills to practice effective communication and coordination.
- Engaged in community outreach programs to promote fire safety awareness and prevention strategies.
- Operated firefighting equipment and tools, ensuring readiness for diverse situations.
- Responded to emergencies, providing rapid assistance and life-saving interventions.
- Conducted fire prevention inspections, identifying hazards and recommending improvements.
- Collaborated with teams during drills, enhancing coordination and response strategies.
- Mentored firefighters, fostering skill development and adherence to safety protocols.
- Developed training programs focused on emergency response techniques and equipment usage
- Conducting Fire Inspections
- Increased firefighter safety by implementing risk management principles into operational guidelines and decision-making processes.
- Conducted investigations of fires to determine origin, cause, and circumstances, providing valuable information for prevention efforts.
- Managed personnel scheduling to maintain optimal staffing levels for both emergency response and station duties.
- Collaborated with other agencies for coordinated response during multi-agency incidents, maximizing resource utilization.
- Assisted neighboring departments when needed, fostering a strong interagency support system for improved emergency response capabilities.
- Led emergency response operations to ensure team safety and effective incident management.
- Conducted training sessions to enhance firefighter skills and promote safety protocols within the department.
- Developed and implemented strategic fire prevention programs, reducing potential hazards in community environments.
- Coordinated with local agencies for mutual aid agreements, strengthening collaborative emergency response efforts.
- Evaluated equipment performance and recommended upgrades to improve operational efficiency and safety standards.
- Mentored junior firefighters, fostering professional development and enhancing team capabilities through hands-on guidance.
- Analyzed incident reports to identify trends, informing future training and resource allocation decisions.
- Oversaw daily operations of firefighting units, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and operational readiness.
- Evaluated team members'' skills regularly to identify areas for improvement and provided targeted training opportunities accordingly.
- Promoted community awareness of fire safety through participation in educational programs and events.
- Provided timely assistance to citizens facing non-emergency situations like water leaks or animal rescues by leveraging local resources appropriately.
- Enhanced team performance through consistent training, evaluations, and feedback on fireground operations.
- Developed incident action plans to effectively manage resources during complex emergencies.
- Implemented new technologies into department practices to enhance overall efficiency and effectiveness in responding to emergencies.
- Reduced property damage by directing effective salvage and overhaul procedures during fire incidents.
- Cultivated positive working relationships with local government officials and community leaders to address fire safety concerns proactively.
- Supervised daily station activities such as equipment checks, facility maintenance tasks, and fitness training routines among crew members.
- Conducted periodic firefighter written performance evaluations and completed written recommendations on probationary firefighters.
- Made daily inspections of facilities and equipment.
- Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds, and stations for proper order and condition.
- Preserved order and discipline among subordinates and gave assignments and instructions.
- Directed work of [Number] firefighters engaged in extinguishing fires.
- Led team in fighting fires and exercised considerable judgment in deciding best way to extinguish based on type of fuel and environment.
- Supervised cleaning and maintenance of buildings, rooms and equipment.
- Assessed scenes, coordinated responses and communicated critical details to superiors through two-way radios.
- 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.
- Checked fire suppression equipment regularly and oversaw upkeep.
- Inspected buildings to determine fire risk and advise owners on prevention methods.
- Assigned firefighters to jobs at strategic locations to facilitate rescue of persons and maximize application of extinguishing agents.
- Prepared and adjusted schedules to cover demand.
- Optimized fire services management with introduction of new systems, policies, procedures and tools.
- Coordinated, scheduled and maintained team resources to achieve top levels of operational readiness.
- Created fire prevention courses to educate general public.
- Streamlined communication between crews by establishing clear protocols and standard operating procedures during critical incidents.
- Coordinated pre-fire planning sessions to gather vital information about potential risks within the community or specific structures.
- Mentored junior firefighters in their professional development, fostering a supportive learning environment within the team.
- Compiled and maintained log books, run reports and training records.
- Responded to emergency medical calls to perform lifesaving procedures and other emergency medical services.
- Ensured public safety by conducting building inspections, identifying hazards, and enforcing compliance with fire codes.
- Improved emergency response times by developing and implementing efficient firefighting strategies and tactics.
- Oversaw maintenance of equipment and apparatuses, ensuring readiness for emergency situations at all times.
- Evaluated team performance and implemented strategies to close gaps in skills or knowledge.
Concrete Finisher
Kramer & Neff Concrete
Fayetteville, PA
08.1987 - 06.1996
- Supervised concrete finishing teams to ensure quality and adherence to project specifications.
- Implemented best practices in surface preparation and finishing techniques for optimal durability.
- Trained junior finishers on safety protocols and efficient use of tools and equipment.
- Coordinated with project managers to align schedules and resource allocation on job sites.
- Reviewed blueprints and project plans to determine necessary materials and methods for completion.
- Conducted quality control inspections to identify defects and implement corrective actions promptly.
- Enhanced workflow processes, leading to improved efficiency in concrete application tasks.
- Mentored apprentices, fostering skill development in advanced finishing techniques and safety measures.
- Set wood and other forming materials to prepare for concrete pours.
- Demolished and repaired old concrete surfaces.
- Mixed, spread, and patched concrete to specifications.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure smooth transitions between different phases of the concrete placement process.
- Maintained clean, safe worksite for team safety and to help keep projects on-track.
- Shoveled materials such as dirt, gravel, and asphalt.
- Created specific finishes on poured concrete.
- Enhanced overall job site safety by ensuring proper usage of tools and equipment during concrete finishing processes.
- Assisted crew members with positioning trucks and moved discharge chute to guide concrete into forms.
- Measured precise amounts of concrete and verified levelness to improve quality of finished product.
- Operated equipment such as forklifts safely to efficiently complete site work.
- Ensured timely completion of projects by effectively managing time and resources for various concrete finishing tasks.
- Wore correct clothing and protective equipment for jobs.
- Maintained consistent quality in finished surfaces by meticulous attention to detail and adherence to industry standards.
- Routinely lifted and moved items weighing up to [Number] pounds.
- Demonstrated versatility by successfully completing various types of concrete projects, including residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
- Minimized downtime during projects by properly maintaining tools, equipment, and machinery essential for efficient execution of tasks related to concrete finishing.
- Assisted in training new employees on proper techniques and best practices for concrete finishing tasks.
- Reduced material wastage through effective use of leveling, screeding, and concrete smoothing techniques.
- Observed manufacturer's safety procedures and corporate standards for pouring and finishing.
- Supported overall project success through expert knowledge of curing times, weather conditions, and other variables affecting final results in the concrete finishing process.
- Applied concrete fabrication techniques to achieve desired project specifications, quality, and code standards.
- Upheld company reputation for excellence in the field through consistent delivery of high-quality finished surfaces that met or exceeded client expectations.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by maintaining open communication with team members and supervisors on project progress.
- Served as a reliable resource for team members and supervisors alike when it came to understanding the nuances of concrete finishing, ensuring all decisions were made with optimal results in mind.
- Increased client satisfaction by efficiently addressing concerns and providing high-quality finished surfaces.
- Ensured compliance with local building codes and regulations during all stages of the concrete finishing process.
- Achieved aesthetically pleasing results on decorative finishes using stamping or staining techniques tailored to individual client preferences.
- Strengthened relationships with clients through clear communication, professionalism, and consistently meeting deadlines for project completion.
- Streamlined workflow on job sites by skillfully operating various pieces of heavy machinery used in the concrete finishing process.
- Assisted in estimating, measuring, and marking out work areas before concrete pours, facilitating accurate project planning.
- Set concrete forms, ensuring alignments and depths for optimal structural integrity.
- Streamlined project timelines by efficiently removing rough or defective spots on concrete surfaces and patching holes.
- Enhanced project versatility by fabricating concrete beams, columns, and panels.
- Ensured compliance with building codes and regulations, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of industry standards.
- Achieved cost savings through effective reuse and maintenance of finishing tools and equipment.
- Contributed to aesthetic quality of projects by creating decorative textures in concrete surfaces.
- Facilitated timely project completion, coordinating closely with other construction professionals to sequence finishing activities.
- Ensured uniformity and quality of surface finish by selecting appropriate tools and methods for each project.
- Monitored concrete as it was poured, spread, and leveled, adjusting work for weather conditions.
- Customized textures and finishes to meet client specifications, contributing to high customer satisfaction.
- Improved structural integrity with application of hardening and sealing compounds to cure surfaces.
- Contributed to sustainable building practices by recommending and using eco-friendly concrete mixes and finishing materials.
- Increased project efficiency by preparing base for concrete pouring, including compacting soil and laying out wire mesh.
- Enhanced project completion rates by efficiently smoothing and finishing surfaces of poured concrete floors, walls, sidewalks, or curbs to specified textures.
- Completed physically demanding tasks such as lifting up to [Number] pounds to move job materials.
- Installed rebar and molded expansion joints and edges for concrete projects.
- Adapted quickly to changing job site requirements or unforeseen challenges without compromising quality or exceeding deadlines in completing assigned tasks related to concrete finishing.
- Maintained safe work environments, adhering strictly to safety protocols and using personal protective equipment.
- Improved durability and appearance of structures with application of sealants and waterproofing compounds.
- Enhanced team productivity, guiding less experienced workers on proper finishing techniques.
- Achieved smooth finishes by operating power vibrator to compact concrete.
- Prepared and placed concrete to create sidewalks, driveways, or patios.
- Troweled and finished concrete to create textured or decorative surfaces.
- Handled repairs on concrete finishing equipment, keeping tools operational.
- Cut, chipped, or sawed concrete to create desired shapes.
- Measured and marked areas for deploying concrete.
- Installed forms for shaping, insulating, or creating decorative effects in concrete.
- Inspected concrete structures for complete fills, defects, or damage.
- Adhered to safety and reporting procedures.
- Applied sealers or waterproofing to concrete as required by project.
- Mixed cement for standard, volumetric, or pervious concrete.
- Repaired damaged items using different chemicals and tools.
- Estimated materials and labor costs for concrete projects to manage project budgets.
- Applied contraction, construction, or isolation joints in appropriate areas and situations.
- Monitored inventory of key tools and materials used at each project site to provide consistent availability.
- Reviewed all project documentation and blueprints to prioritize and schedule job tasks.
Education
High School Diploma -
Waynesboro Senior High School
Waynesboro, PA05-1981
High School Diploma -
Franklin County Vo-Tech
Chambersburg, PA05-1981
Skills
- Firefighting equipment operation
- Rope rescue techniques
- Fireground tactics
- Physical fitness maintenance
- Confined space entry
- Hazardous materials handling
- Fire suppression techniques
- Fire alarm systems
- Incident command system
- Fire behavior analysis
- Fire prevention strategies
- Hydraulic calculations
- Interagency collaboration
- Fire investigation techniques
- Vehicle extrication techniques
- Swift water rescue
- Community outreach programs
- High angle rescue
- Fire cause determination
- Urban search and rescue
- Aerial ladder operations
- Emergency medical services
- Salvage and overhaul procedures
- Foam application techniques
- Firefighter safety practices
- Fire pumps operation
- Ice rescue techniques
- Building construction
- Rescue operations coordination
- Fire codes enforcement
- Fire suppression
- Interagency coordination
- Emergency response procedures
- Fire response rescue direction
- Fire inspection suppression
- Public education
- Staff performance evaluation
- Budget administration
- Supply procurement
- Staff development and leadership
- Firefighting procedures
- Task prioritization
- Safety management
- Worker training
- Equipment operation
- Self motivation
- Crew training
- Interpersonal skills
- Public safety
- Analytical thinking
- Conflict resolution
- CPR certified
- Goal setting
- Risk assessment
- Professionalism
- Vehicle extrication
- Fire prevention
- Physical fitness
- Burning building entry tactics
- Incident command
- Rescue operations
- Map reading and navigation
- Medical assistance
- Wildland firefighting
- Water rescue
- Emergency medical treatment
- First aid certified
- Emergency communications
- Equipment maintenance and repair
- Fire suppression tools operations
- Emergency support
- Personal protective equipment
- Fire containment
- Fire safety
- Fire service
- Community relations
- Emergency response
- Relationship building and management
- Fire alarm response
- Medical equipment usage
- Hazard prevention
- Patient care documentation
- Leadership and supervision
- Fire pump operation
- Fire inspection investigations
- Crisis communications
- Public safety and security
- Hose connections
- Personnel management
- Medical response
- Disaster management
- Firefighting activities
- Cultural sensitivity
- Administration and management
- Emergency management
- Fire department maintenance
Certification
- CFI - Certified Fire Inspector
- HAZWOPER - Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response
- CFOD - Chief Fire Officer Designation
- FSD - Fire Safety Director
- PADI - Professional Association of Diving Instructors Instructor
- EVOC - Emergency Vehicle Operators Course
- CFR - Certified First Responder
- PO1 - Pumper Operator 1
- PO2 - Pumper Operator 2
- FO1 - Fire Officer 1
- FO2 - Fire Officer 2
- FO3 - Fire Officer 3
- FO4 - Fire Officer 4
- RWS - Rural Water Supply
- PO2
Timeline
Retired Career Firefighter "Captain"
DOD Department of Defense
06.1996 - 06.2021
Concrete Finisher
Kramer & Neff Concrete
08.1987 - 06.1996
Volunteer Firefighter "Fire Chief"
Mont Alto Volunteer Fire Department
06.1979 - Current
High School Diploma -
Waynesboro Senior High School
High School Diploma -
Franklin County Vo-Tech