I really enjoy Resistance Training, Swimming (knowing the different strokes), Cardiovascular Endurance Training (all types), Karate, Iaido (quick draw Samurai Sword Training) I'm well-versed in all of these disciplines and I am working towards instructor status in each of them I have also organized and taught women self defense classes I have also taught as a Sensei in Karate I'm currently working on Personal Training certification and am participating in an internship I'm scheduled to complete Rock Valley College Personal Training Certificate on 08-04-2026
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Ronald Schwartz
Retired
Machesney Park,IL
Summary
Experienced firefighter known for strong leadership and operational readiness. Committed to improving team efficiency and community safety through effective training, emergency response, and fire safety education initiatives.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Professional Firefighter Driver Engineer
Rockford Fire Department
Rockford, IL
10.1996 - 04.2024
- Conducted inspections of commercial buildings to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.
- Educated public and community members on fire safety and prevention methods to provide life-saving techniques.
- Mentored junior firefighters, promoting skill development and adherence to best practices in firefighting techniques.
- Analyzed post-incident reports to identify areas for improvement in operational effectiveness and response time.
- Collaborated with local agencies to conduct community outreach programs focused on fire safety education.
- Enhanced community safety by responding to various emergency situations, including fires, medical emergencies, and hazardous materials incidents.
- Improved team efficiency with regular training sessions and drills to maintain optimal performance during emergencies.
- Supported fellow firefighters during high-pressure situations by maintaining clear communication channels and offering necessary guidance when needed.
- Demonstrated strong leadership skills while serving as a crew leader on multiple occasions, guiding team members to complete tasks efficiently and safely.
- Maintained operational readiness by conducting daily checks on firefighting equipment, ensuring all gear was in proper working order.
- Efficiently extinguished structural fires using specialized tools and equipment designed for specific types of blazes.
- Educated the public on fire prevention measures through presentations and demonstrations at local schools and community events.
- Engaged in physical fitness activities regularly to maintain peak performance levels required for emergency response situations.
- Collaborated with other first responders to provide comprehensive support during crisis situations.
- Promoted a positive image of the fire department by interacting professionally with the public and other agencies during calls for service.
- Reduced property damage by quickly assessing the scene and implementing strategic firefighting techniques.
- Evaluated situation at emergency sites to determine and execute most effective methods for saving life and property.
- Participated in community outreach programs to raise awareness of fire prevention and safety measures.
- Responded to emergency medical calls to perform lifesaving procedures and other emergency medical services.
- Documented emergency calls and equipment maintenance to enable tracking history and maintain accurate records.
- Drove and operated structural pumpers, tankers, ladders, and service vehicles to aid in rescue operations.
- Trained new firefighters to comply with safety protocols and equipment usage.
- Operated fire hoses, hydrants and extinguishers to eliminate fire and prevent from spreading.
- Collaborated with other emergency responders on scene to establish adequate fire suppression.
- 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.
- Monitored and responded to hazardous gas levels and smoke detectors to avoid injuries and fatalities.
- The Rockford Fire Department is known to be only second to Chicago for run volume, While on Rockford Engine 2 on a 24 hour shift I once ran 22 calls. On average each call can take up to an hour.
Education
Personal Training Certificate - Personal Trainer
Rock Valley College
Rockford, IL08-2026
Firefighter 1, And 2 - Fire Science
Rockford Fire Department Recruit Academy
Rockford, IL01-1997
State of Illinois EMT-Paramedic License - Emergency Medical Services
Northern Illinois Intermediate / Paramedic Program
Rockford, IL12-1993
Some College (No Degree) - Fire Science
Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois
North Chicago, IL11-1990
High School Diploma -
Rock Valley College
Rockford, IL05-1987
Skills
- Teamwork and cooperation
- Fire service leadership
- Incident command system
- Emergency medical response
Accomplishments
Certificates Granted to Ron Schwartz
. Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty
Duty Assignment USS Constellation CV64
Rank Fireman / Electrical / Mechanical Equipment Repairman
United States Navy, Record of Service 08-10-1990 thru 08-07-1992
Character of Service HONORABLE
. Completion of Northern Illinois Intermediate / Paramedic Program (December 30, 1993)
. Sandan (3rd Degree) Black Belt of Karate on the 28 day of April 2021
Okinawa Seidokan Karate Kobudo Renmei
. Sandan (3rd Degree) Black Belt of Iaido (Quick Draw/Samurai Sword) 06-2022
Eishin-Ryu
. City of Rockford Fire Department
Fireman, Paramedic, and Driver Engineer
Dates of Service 10-02-1996 thru 04-03-2024
Retired 27.5 years
Interests
Timeline
Professional Firefighter Driver Engineer
Rockford Fire Department
10.1996 - 04.2024
Personal Training Certificate - Personal Trainer
Rock Valley College
Firefighter 1, And 2 - Fire Science
Rockford Fire Department Recruit Academy
State of Illinois EMT-Paramedic License - Emergency Medical Services
Northern Illinois Intermediate / Paramedic Program
Some College (No Degree) - Fire Science
Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois
High School Diploma -
Rock Valley College
National Defense Service Medal
I served in the United States Navy onboard the USS Constellation CV64 as a Fireman / Damage Controlman from 08-10-1990 thru 08-07-1992 and my time served was during the U.S. / Iraq war.