Paula Whalen
Conneaut Lake,Pennsylvania
Summary
Dynamic and dedicated professional with experience as a Volunteer Firefighter at Linesville Volunteer Fire Dept, skilled in fire suppression and crisis communications. Proven ability to enhance community safety through effective teamwork and public outreach, while maintaining high standards in emergency response and personnel management. Committed to ongoing professional development and community engagement.
Overview
41
41
years of professional experience
Work History
Volunteer Firefighter
Linesville Volunteer Fire Dept
01.1985 - Current
- Operated firefighting equipment during emergency response to ensure community safety.
- Collaborated with team members to develop effective fire suppression strategies.
- Conducted regular training drills to maintain skills and preparedness levels among volunteers.
- Assisted in maintaining fire station facilities and equipment for optimal performance.
- Responded quickly to emergency calls, demonstrating strong decision-making under pressure.
- Engaged in community outreach programs to educate the public on fire prevention practices.
- Enhanced teamwork among the crew by participating in regular training sessions, drills, and exercises.
- Administered first aid and conducted emergent response management.
- Strengthened firefighter skills through ongoing professional development opportunities such as attending workshops or conferences related to the field.
- Drove and operated structural pumpers, tankers, ladders, and service vehicles to aid in rescue operations.
Income Maintenance Caseworker
Crawford County Assistance Office
01.1992 - 06.2025
- Assisted clients in understanding program eligibility and application processes.
- Collected and verified documentation to determine financial assistance qualifications.
- Provided guidance on available resources and support services for individuals in need.
- Maintained accurate case files and updated client information in electronic systems.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline case processing procedures.
Education
Business
Linesville High School
Linesville, PA06.1987
Skills
- Vehicle extrication
- Fire prevention
- Fire suppression
- Hazardous materials handling
- Medical assistance
- Relationship building and management
- Fire pump operation
- Leadership and supervision
- Crisis communications
- Public safety and security
- Personnel management
- Firefighting activities
- Administration and management
- Fire department maintenance
- Firefighting
- Budget management
- Cooperative relationships
- Fire equipment use
- Fire protection system testing
- Verbal and written communication
- Clerical skills
- Schedule management
- Eligibility determination
- Cultural sensitivity
- Policy interpretation
- Compliance standards
- Strong client relations
- Client assessment
- Sound mathematical reasoning
- Interviewing techniques
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Effective communication skills
- Problem-solving abilities
- Multitasking
- Reliability
- Organizational skills
- Active listening
- Decision-making
- Documentation and paperwork
- Computer proficiency
- Documentation skills
- Self motivation
- Appointment scheduling
- Application review
- Telephone etiquette
- Case management
- Community outreach
Timeline
Income Maintenance Caseworker
Crawford County Assistance Office
01.1992 - 06.2025
Volunteer Firefighter
Linesville Volunteer Fire Dept
01.1985 - Current
Business
Linesville High School
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