Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Paid

Job Function

Firefighter / Paramedic (or Other ALS)

Years in Fire/EMS:

16

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Rockford Fire Department

Years With Department/Agency

12

Other Past or Current Departments and Organizations

I began as a vounteer firefighter in Albany Wisconsin and later became an intern firefighter at Fitchburg Wisconsin while attending MATC to complete my Associates Degree. I was the first full-time firefighter hired in Fitchburg and worked there between 1994 to 1996 until I was hired in Rockford Illinois.

My Training:

Firefighter III, Fire Officer I, Paramedic, Instructor II, FAE, Numerous Tech Rescue Certifications, Associates in Fire Sciene, Completeing my Bachalors through Upper Iowa University

About Me:

Well traveled, love to cook, always involved with the fire service at some level... I might be taking a course, teaching a course, developing a new course, serving on a committee, or helping out in my union.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

There is more to it than meets the eye

Top Issues Facing Responders:

1. Health Care Coverage for a lifetime of service
2. After 9/11 the firefighter was a hero to many and the public, including politicians, saw the true nature of what it means to put firefighters in harms way. Unfortunately, this has worn off and the constant threat to downsize or understaff the fire department even at the risk of endangering the responders and the citizens is too much to take. We as firefighters need to stand firm and speak loud to protect ourselves from bureaucratic downsizing.