Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Paid

Job Function

Retired

Years in Fire/EMS:

39

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Sacramento Metro

Years With Department/Agency

25

Other Past or Current Departments and Organizations

California Fire Chiefs Assn.
Utah Fire Chiefs Assn.
IAFF Local 522
Sacramento County Fire Chiefs Assn.
Cache County Fire Chiefs Assn.
IAFC

My Training:

AA Fire Tech
BA Journalism
Masters -- Public Admin.

About Me:

39 years in fire service. Worked my way up the chain. 7 years ff; 8 years company officer; 6 years B/C; 5 years AC; 13 years fire chief (two different departments -- 6 years Cosumnes (Califiornia); 7 years Logan Utah.

Day Job:

Fire Chief -- retired

Relationship Status:

Married

Facebook or Other Online Profile:

http://meaker.mark@gmail.com

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

Grew up next door to a fire chief and wanted to be a firefighter since I was 5 y.o.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

It's challenging; you help people . . . and people love you!

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Loss of fireground experience.
Lightweight construction
Funding for adequate staffing