RONALD STEMEN
Blacklick
Summary
Seasoned leader in fire and explosive investigations with over 25 years in the Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal. Directed complex arson and explosion investigations, managed statewide programs, and led multidisciplinary teams during high-risk incidents. Skilled in budget management, policy development, and interagency collaboration to enhance operational efficiency and public safety.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Fire and Explosive Investigator & Detection Canine Handler
Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal
Reynoldsburg
01.1999 - Current
- Investigates fireworks, explosives, suspected bombings, illegal manufacturing, and the use of explosive materials
- Develops the State Fire Marshal's explosive canine and investigation program
- Successfully manages programs and approved budgets for the explosive detection canine, State Fire Marshal radio system, and vehicle fleet management.
- Maintains the assigned canine's training and care in accordance with standard protocols.
- Responds quickly to suspected explosive incidents and uses emergency management protocols
- Assists in arson-related incidents, case management, and explosive evidence storage
- Develops case plans and conducts comprehensive investigation tactics to obtain necessary evidence.
- Completes comprehensive face-to-face interviews with subjects, neighbors, and employers to generate reports to document investigative findings.
- Testifies as an expert witness in local, state, and federal court systems
- Provides educational instruction for the ATF Post-blast Investigation course
- Writes emergency operations plans in conjunction with federal, state, and local partners.
- Consults with stakeholders to develop and refine various policies and procedures.
- Responds to and coordinates emergency operations at events of all levels that affect public safety
- Manages several projects, including the 2009 Homeland Security Grant, the Development of the Investigative Support Unit, and the MARCS radio upgrade
- Effectively resolves both internal and external concerns by carrying out clear and concise communication
Fire Lieutenant
Colerain Township Fire Department
01.1990 - 01.2003
- Conducted annual performance evaluations for personnel, identifying deficiencies and recommending targeted actions to enhance team effectiveness.
- Demonstrated leadership acting as on-scene commander directing strategic alternatives to devise optimal approach and containment strategies
- Conducted fire origin and cause determination, fire safety inspections, fire service instruction, fire safety education, fire suppression, and paramedic services
- Trained and educated staff in emergency functions as a department training proctor, enhancing overall operational readiness and response effectiveness.
- Oversaw maintenance operations, ensuring equipment readiness and reliability to support critical emergency response capabilities.
- Maintained equipment and vehicles to ensure readiness for response
- Operated firefighting equipment such as emergency vehicles, EMS equipment, power tools, and hydraulic equipment
- Assumed active role in identifying opportunities to develop and implement projects which promoted organization’s mission and function
- Educated public and community members on fire safety and prevention methods
High School Instructor
Scarlet Oaks Career Development Campus
01.1996 - 01.1998
- Developed, managed and maintained a written course curriculum, policies and goals.
- Provided instruction to meet the state standards in firefighting and employability.
- Developed educational plans for each student to support successful completion and enhance employment placement outcomes.
- Supervised 30 to 35 high school students annually, conducting evaluations, managing disciplinary matters, and facilitating employment placement.
- Coordinated with state and local jurisdictions to deliver training and employment placement services, addressing needs of outside stakeholders.
- Successfully managed the approved budget to meet the prescribed goals of the program including tracking purchase, locating vendors and developing future budgets.
- Led collaborative efforts in the crisis intervention committee to enhance support systems.
Education
Vocational Education Instruction -
Wright State University
01-1998
Fire Science Engineering -
University of Cincinnati
01-1996
High School -
Northwest High School
01-1989
Criminal Justice -
Penn Foster College
Skills
- Fire and explosive investigations
- Criminal investigations
- Regulatory Compliance
- Interview Techniques
- Crisis Communication
- Resource Allocation
- Complex Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Community relations
Affiliations
- International Association of Arson Investigators
- National Association of Fire Investigators
- International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators
Certification
- OPATA Peace Officer Certification, 2004
- IAAI Certified Fire Investigator, 2001
- NAFI Certified Fire and Explosion Investigation, 1998
- IAAI Certified Evidence Technician, 2017
- Fire and Life Safety Inspector, 1991
- Fire Instructor, 1998
- OPATA Explosive Detection Canine Handler, 2011 - Present
- Professional Fire Fighter, 1990
- IAEE Basic Blast Safety, 2009
- Ignitable Liquid Canine Evaluator, 2022
Awards and Honors
- 2017 Ohio Department of Commerce Employee of the Year
- 2017 Ohio Department of Commerce Employee of the Quarter
- 2009 Awarded the State Homeland Security Grant for the Post-blast Investigation Program
- 2003 Firefighter of the Year
- 1992 Fire Prevention Officer of the Year
Timeline
Fire and Explosive Investigator & Detection Canine Handler
Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal
01.1999 - Current
High School Instructor
Scarlet Oaks Career Development Campus
01.1996 - 01.1998
Fire Lieutenant
Colerain Township Fire Department
01.1990 - 01.2003
Vocational Education Instruction -
Wright State University
Fire Science Engineering -
University of Cincinnati
High School -
Northwest High School
Criminal Justice -
Penn Foster College