I have proudly served in the fire service since 1986, beginning my career with the Perry Township Fire Department as a volunteer while simultaneously working full-time for the Timken Company. From the outset, public service and community safety were central to my professional values, and I remained committed to both careers for many years. My early experiences as a volunteer firefighter provided a strong foundation in emergency response, teamwork, and leadership, while also reinforcing my desire to further dedicate my career to the fire and emergency medical services.
In 2003, driven by a passion for the fire service and a commitment to serving Perry Township at a higher level, I made the decision to leave my career at the Timken Company and accept a full-time position with the Perry Township Fire Department. I was appointed Deputy Chief of Operations and Director of Training, roles in which I served with great pride and responsibility. As Deputy Chief of Operations, I was responsible for overseeing the daily operational readiness of the department, supervising personnel, managing staffing and apparatus deployment, and ensuring that our crews were prepared to respond effectively and safely to all types of emergencies. I also served as an incident commander when necessary, making critical decisions under challenging conditions while maintaining the safety of both firefighters and the public. In addition to operational oversight, I performed a wide range of administrative duties that supported the overall efficiency and professionalism of the department.
As Director of Training, I was responsible for the development, coordination, and delivery of comprehensive fire and EMS training programs. I ensured that all members met or exceeded state and national training standards and remained current with evolving best practices, tactics, and safety protocols. I personally instructed numerous training sessions, placing a strong emphasis on skill development, accountability, and firefighter safety. My commitment to education and professional development has always been a cornerstone of my leadership philosophy.
That commitment extends beyond our department. Since 2013, I have served locally as an Instructional Assistant, teaching and mentoring new firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics, as well as American Heart Association CPR students and Fire Safety Inspectors. In this role, I have had the privilege of helping prepare the next generation of public safety professionals, reinforcing the importance of competence, compassion, and service to the community.
In addition to holding multiple fire and EMS certifications, I have earned an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science and successfully completed the Ohio Fire Chiefs’ Accreditation Program. These educational and professional achievements reflect my ongoing dedication to leadership development, organizational excellence, and the continuous improvement of fire service operations.
I am deeply honored to be a lifelong resident of Perry Township and a proud alumnus of Perry High School. Serving the community where I was raised has been both a privilege and a responsibility that I do not take lightly. It is with great pride and gratitude that I continue to serve as your Fire Chief, committed to protecting lives and property, supporting our firefighters and EMS personnel, and upholding the highest standards of public service for the residents of Perry Township.