2024 IAFC VCOS Training Officer Award Nominees

The 2024 IAFC VCOS Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees

1. 2024 Training Officer Recognition
Award Nominees

2. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
2
Patrick Hutchison
Division Chief of EMS
City of Westfield Fire Department, IN
”In the last ten years, Westfield Fire Department
has sent three individuals to paramedic classes.
We currently have five students enrolled with more
interest. I believe there is a direct correlation
between the passion and dedication Chief
Hutchison shows during the recruit academy, and
the interest cultivated within the students.”
- Mark Hart, Deputy Chief of Operations

3. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
3
Zachary T Brombacher
Training Captain
Halfmoon-Waterford Fire District #1, NY
”Over the last couple of years, Zach has
completely revamped our training program. He has
successfully integrated our existing software with
Vector Solutions, streamlining our training
processes. This integration has enabled him to
produce detailed reports, providing the Chief’s
office with clear insights into our progress and
compliance. Zach’s efforts have significantly
enhanced our ability to monitor and manage
training activities effectively.
- Tony Bonventre, Chief of Department

4. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
4
Patrick J. Jessee
Commander/Paramedic
Chicago Fire Department, IL
“Serving as the driving force behind the layout and
implementation of the Chicago Fire Department's
Vector Solutions, Evaluations+, and Check It platform,
Commander Jessee has engineered a comprehensive
system that serves as both a learning tool and a robust
administrative database…. Through this innovative
framework, the department has significantly enhanced
its efficiency in delivering targeted training while also
ensuring transparency in training delivery, ultimately
benefitting both the department and the broader
community of Chicago.”
- Walter Shroeder, District Chief

5. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
5
Melissa Kennedy
Deputy Chief of Training
Seattle Fire Department, WA
“Chief Kennedy’s impact on members of the Seattle Fire
Department (SFD), and the Department collectively have
been profound…. Chief Kennedy has integrated a robust
quality assurance cycle into all department training,
better measuring end-effectiveness and outcomes with
needs, course development, and delivery. Additionally,
she has advanced department safety by implementing
and integrating NFPA 1407 compliant safety training
measures for Department Safety Chiefs and company
officers overseeing all training activities. As a result, SFD
has seen drops in safety related injuries and accidents.”
- Chris Lombard, Assistant Chief of Resource Management

6. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
6
Scott Michael Feather
Battalion Chief
Colleton County Fire-Rescue, SC
“B/C Scott Feather keeps up to date on modern
techniques, works side by side with the crews and
responds to incidents in efforts to better the dept and our
training activities. He has a great reputation within the
state and offers his time, classes, and materials to other
agencies to improve their operations. He works tirelessly
to ensure consistency throughout our County and the 34
fire stations to keep everyone on the same page so to
speak. He has developed trainers in various districts and
assists those personnel with training others.”
- Barry McRoy, Fire Chief

7. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
7
Matt Berg
Training Chief
West Fargo Fire Department, ND
“With a growing department and expanding city, our
training chief has had a significant effect on our
ability to train and be an effective all hazards dept.
Current training tactics and programs keep the
crews active in their daily evolutions as well as
officer development. With Matt’s direction, we have
advanced in years what we didn't do in decades.
- Tom Clark, Deputy Chief of Professional Standards

8. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
8
Shawn Tukua
Battalion Chief, Grants Section
Commander
Los Angeles City Fire Department, CA
“Chief Tukua continues to facilitate Instructor, Ethical
Leadership, Company and Chief Officer development,
and command-level classes in various platforms and
delivery formats, including in-person, hybrid, and online
in synchronous and asynchronous modalities, further
embracing technology in an effort to continue to support
critical succession planning and the develop of future
leaders. Chief Tukua’s dedication to professional
development and standards enhancement is exemplary.”
- Jamie L Brown, Deputy Chief, Training and Support Bureau

9. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
9
Eric Hill
Training Coordinator
Pigeon Forge Fire Department, TN
“Eric is impacting the City of Pigeon Forge Fire
Department by bringing us forward and keeping up with
the times. His ability to recognize when change is
needed and push for that change. He also is consistently
looking for better and smarter ways to train across 3
shifts, Volunteer and Part-time staff while still taking
training classes on his own time. I think Eric Hill would
be an outstanding candidate for this award as his
dedication alone is astonishing.”
- Chris Young, Lieutenant

10. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
10
Brad Olson
Training Officer
City of Madison Fire Department, WI
“T.O. Olson has directly impacted every member of
this department during various drills and trainings to
assure each member is as prepared as possible
when faced with any given situation. He has no
concern of time dedicated to our members rather a
concern of providing the best possible learning
opportunities so each member of our department
can operate in the safest, most efficient means.”
- Jeffrey Larson, Assistant Chief of Fire Operations

11. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
11
Matthew Barnes
Deputy Chief of Operations & Training
Southern Marin Fire Protection District,
CA
“Chief Barnes has, and continues, to create legacy
impacts for our agency, as well as across the
County and State…. He has worked tirelessly in the
maturation of our agency's training programs and
services, creating a foundation that the current
Battalion Chief of Training can build from. Chief
Barnes has and continues to create legacy impacts
for our agency and the County of Marin.”
- Christian Tubbs, Fire Chief

12. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
12
Vic Vollrath
Sergeant
Bloomington Fire Department, IN
“He is our Top Instructor for our most recent Recruit
Academy. He has a heart serve others. He has a
desire to make everyone better. Serving since 2015,
he is a regular participant in department activities
outside of normal operations. He has began using
his own time and equipment to develop wooden
plaques designed by each recruit class to
commemorate their time at the training academy.”
- Kenny Hinkle, Captain

13. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
13
Donald Burns
Assistant Chief of Training & Safety
City of Wilmington Fire Department, NC
“Chief Burns' visionary leadership has propelled the
department forward, fostering a culture of
continuous learning, inclusivity, and performance
excellence. By prioritizing career advancement and
realistic training, he has created a department
better equipped to meet modern firefighting and
emergency medical challenges, enhancing the
safety and well-being of the community.”
- Robb Trout, Master Firefighter of Training

14. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
14
Art Holcomb
Division Chief Fire Training
Escondido Fire Department, CA
“Division Chief Holcomb is the Training Officer for
the organization and instrumental in a 16 agency
collaborative training agreement that aligns
promotional, professional and organizational
training. He maintains high caliber training with
nearly no staff and engages in creating avenues for
educational and educational knowledge enrichment.
He is essential to keeping the professional
standards organizationally.”
- Lucifer Keener, Division Chief Training

15. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
15
Jason Dauta
Training Lieutenant
St. Petersburg Fire Rescue, FL
“Jason's positive demeanor significantly impacts the
entire department. His adeptness at connecting with
others fosters open and insightful dialogues on
various topics. Jason demonstrates a genuine
commitment to enhancing the department,
prioritizing collective advancement over personal
gain. Despite his accomplishments, he remains
humble and selfless in his pursuit of training
everyone to reach their fullest potential.”
- Michael Gerardo, Training Captain

16. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
16
Christine Tonetta
B-Shift Captain/Training Officer
Millville Fire Department, NJ
“After our active shooter exercise, Captain Tonetta
saw areas where the fire department could assist
law enforcement. She then created a program to
teach firefighters and law enforcement officers how
to work together in these areas. This program has
been given throughout our County, South Jersey,
and many places throughout the United States.”
- Michael Lippincott, Chief of Department

17. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
17
Ryan Sparks
Division Chief of Training and Safety
Zionsville Fire Department, IN
“DC Sparks continues to be the driving force for our
firefighters being prepared for incident scenes
whether it be in the academy setting or for
incumbent firefighters. DC Sparks maintains a solid
balance between ‘the way we've always done it’
and integrating new techniques and methods.”
- Aaron Gibbons, Deputy Chief of Operations

18. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
18
Jeremey Newton
District Chief of Training
City of Seminole Fire Rescue, FL
“Chief Newton is a true innovator regarding training and
education. He has revamped our recruit training to
develop a professional standards program that evaluates
and educates new firefighters in multiple disciplines….
Chief Newton also created several week-long academies
to develop our personnel. These academies include an
acting officer academy, engine driver academy, squad
academy, and aerial operations academy. These
programs provide consistent information throughout the
organization, ensuring each member receives the exact
and proper training to be successful.”
- William Morelli, Assistant Fire Chief

19. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
19
Jared Blair
Senior Training Officer
Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service, MB
“Jared has embraced modern evidence-based
fire behaviourand practical science to manage
and promote industry leading fire dynamics
training supporting firefighter knowledge, skills
and safety.”
- Scott Wilkinson, Deputy Chief, Fire Rescue & Operations
Training

20. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
20
Mike Novak
Division Chief/Training & Safety
City of Branson (MO) Fire Rescue
“Division Chief Novak is "Fully Involved" in his work, his
family, and his community! He not only positively
impacts our training and safety programs locally but
also at the state and federal levels. He serves as the
FEMA Region VII representative for the National Fallen
Firefighters Foundation - as an instructor and facilitator
for their programs. He is engaged with the Fire
Department Safety Officers Association. These
partnerships at the federal level provided valuable
resources to make a positive impact on the fire
department at the local level.”
- Ted Martin, Fire Chief

21. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
21
Donald (DJ) Messick, Jr.
Training Captain
Salisbury (MD) Fire Department
“DJ recently reviewed the departments use of a
specific training software platform and conducted
an analysis that showed we could save money and
improve the quality of training by going with a
different vendor. His analysis was correct and
members are now more eager to participate in the
online training.”
- Rob Frampton, Fire Chief

22. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
22
Shun Haynes
District Chief
Chicago Fire Department, IL
“District Chief Haynes runs the Chicago Fire
Academy. DC Haynes has upgraded the training
facilities at the academy and has brought the CFD
into a new era of excellence…. Our candidates are
coming out sharper and more prepared for
challenging urban setting.”
- Malick Bilal, Captain

23. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
23
Jason Patterson
Battalion Chief of Training
Roswell Fire Department, GA
“…With the help of the Vector Solutions Training Platform,
Chief Patterson more than doubled the department’s
training hours, improving personnel preparedness and
safety, and potentially the department’s ISO score. Chief
Patterson's strategic initiatives have not only
strengthened the department's operational readiness and
cohesiveness but have also propelled it toward becoming
a world-class public safety organization. His efforts have
significantly enhanced the department's capabilities and
made a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of the
Roswell community and its firefighters.”
- Joe Pennino, Fire Chief

24. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
24
Chad Reswik
Sergeant
Edgecliff Village Fire Department, TX
“Chad has had a significant impact on the fire department
through various initiatives and improvements that have
enhanced both operational effectiveness and personnel
development. By advocating for and overseeing the
adoption of modern firefighting equipment and
technology, Chad has helped improve the department’s
response capabilities. Understanding the physical and
mental demands on firefighters, Chad has initiated health
and wellness programs that focus on physical fitness,
mental health support, and injury prevention, contributing
to better overall well-being of the department personnel.”
- Jeff Ballew, Fire Chief

25. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
25
Gordon Lohmeyer
Division Director
Texas A&M Engineering Extension, TX
“Chief Lohmeyer is an exceptional employee who
motivates and mentors other TEEX instructors,
attendees to the ESTI fire field, and other related
professionals. He oversee programs that provide
high caliber deliver of firefighting training to tens of
thousands of students each year across the country.”
- David Coatney, Agency Director/CEO

26. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
26
Alexander Griff
Fire Lieutenant
Hazel Crest Fire-Rescue, IL
“Since Alexander Griff assumed the role of Training
Officer, our department has experienced a notable
transformation in the quality and effectiveness of our
training initiatives. He has implemented a wide range
of innovative training methods and programs that
have significantly enhanced the skills and readiness
of our firefighters. His commitment to staying
updated on the latest firefighting techniques, safety
protocols, and technological advancements has
been truly commendable.”
- Tyronne Jarett, Sr., Fire Chief

27. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
27
Blake McCormick
Fire Captain
Calistoga Fire Department, CA
“Our training program has improved from an
unmonitored, unrecorded, and unorganized program
that resulted in an average of 5 to 7 hours per month
per employee of training into an organized and well
reported training program that assures a minimum of
20 hours per month per employee of training. Our
probationary firefighter program has also been
improved to make sure it exceeds the State of
California requirements for firefighter training
standards.”
- Jed Matcham, Fire Chief

28. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
28
Jason Batz
Training Lieutenant
City of Reading PA Department of Fire
Rescue Services
“Lt. Batz leads all new academy as well as oversees
continuous training for the entire department fire and
EMS. A one man show for a department of 141….
He has finally set a standard for training for new
recruits to the most Senior FF. Something that has
been absent for a long time.”
- James Stoudt Jr., Fire Chief

29. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
29
Mike Grevelding
Lieutenant
Fayetteville Fire Department, NY
“Lt. Grevelding has changed the image of the
department with the structure he is continuing to
uphold with all members. We are all on the same
page. This leadership together is what keeps our
department at an ISO Class 2. Lt. Grevelding has
given all members something to look up to, so we
can provide the best service to our community.”
- Nathan Baker, Firefighter/EMT

30. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
30
Karl Cantrell
Division Chief of Training
Spokane Valley Fire Department, WA
“Chief Cantrell has drastically improved the overall
skill level of all members of the department, and
therefore the department as a whole. He has raised
the department training standard thereby improving
the operations on the emergency scene and the
safety of SVFD Firefighters. I believe that the actions
of Chief Cantrell and his training staff have
contributed significantly to making the Spokane
Valley Fire Department one of the premier fire
departments in Washington State.”
- Zack Bond, Deputy Chief of Operations

31. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
31
Michael Corneilous
Training Chief
Fannin County Fire Department, GA
“He has increased our training hours for the
department and focused on ISO training to help the
community. He has offered classes that has never
been offered and it has gotten people interested into
training again to improve their self and not just keep
a certification.”
- Matthew Karry, Battalion Chief

32. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
32
Sarah Franklin
Lieutenant
Broward Sheriff’s Office, FL
“Lt. Franklin is always willing to assist all members to
become better medical professionals, as well as
ensure our newly hired firefighters and paramedics
are in the best physical shape upon completing the
training academy.”
- Joseph Dorsette, Assistant Chief

33. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
33
Stephen Krivjanik
Lieutenant
Broward Sheriff’s Office, FL
“Lt. Krivjanik has assisted with introducing new
equipment to our operational members, reviewing
patient care reports, completing mentoring to our
members to better understand medical treatments,
protocols, and provide data and metrics.”
- Joseph Dorsette, Assistant Chief

34. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
34
Jimmy Cox
Division Chief of Training
Grapevine Fire Department, TX
“Chief Cox goes out of his way to organize 14
different cities to work together to better our entire
area. He takes time to truly listen to every member
and is always looking for ways to improve training
and physical fitness in the department.”
- Eric Spellman, Office Technician

35. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
35
Anthony Carraro
Battalion Chief and Training Officer
Greater Round Lake Fire Protection
District, IL
“BC Carraro has arranged for multidisciplinary training
between local police departments and our fire districts
for Active Threat /Active Shooter response. This has
brought cooperation and coordination between our
police and fire agencies, which has helped in
everyday calls as well. He has also spearheaded a
professional development program for our officers,
something that was well received and long overdue
for our agency.”
- Jay VandeBerg, Battalion Chief

36. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
36
Rick Spencer
Battalion Chief
Cortez Fire Protection District, CO
“BC Spencer understands the different means of
teaching and training adults and utilizes these
techniques and his knowledge to pass onto
members of not only the Cortez Fire Protection
District, but other volunteer fire departments located
in the Four Corners area of SW Colorado.”
- Roy Wilkinson, Fire Chief

37. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
37
Damon Laurion
Assistant Chief of Training
Duluth Fire Department, MN
“Damon works extremely hard to make sure our
firefighters have what they need to do their jobs. We
have increased our monthly training substantially
since Damon promoted to this position and he has
developed a training plan to be consistent and
concise. He has been open to training opportunities
that we haven’t had before such as 13E training on
sprinklers. Because of this passion for training and
willingness to embrace new ideas in the fire service,
our skill level and service delivery has increased for
our community.”
- Lisa Consie, Fire Marshal

38. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
38
Ryan Hartberger
Captain of Training
Botetourt County Department of Fire &
EMS, VA
“Captain Hartberger has a visible passion for training
and necessary details to ensure for safe delivery of
all aspects of fire, EMS, and general emergency
services training. He is always looking for new
opportunities for training…. Through his leadership,
we have been able to train a significant amount of
the workforce, with more training planned, on search
and rescue operations, RIT and MAYDAY
operations, as well as other fundamental basis on a
building type that is rarely available for training.”
- Jason Ferguson, Chief of Fire & EMS

39. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
39
Trenton Prevost
Training Officer
Cocoa Beach Fire Department, FL
“I truly believe that our department would not be
where it is today without Lt Prevost. He has gone
above and beyond when it comes to training and
implementing new tactics and equipment. Lt Prevost
doesn't do it for himself, he truly cares about the
direction of the department, and giving everyone the
tools and knowledge to be the best that they can be.
To put it simple, there is no one else like him.”
- Andrew Portuondo, Officer

40. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
40
Ethan Luffman
Chief
Stewart County Fire Rescue, TN
“Over the past 3 years, Chief Luffman has
encouraged recruitment, allowed for and given
members access to new trainings to further their
skills, and appointed new officers that are willing to
help. We have gone from having 5 or 6 active
members to roughly 30 who truly care about the fire
department and the community.”
- Jamie Howard, Firefighter/EMR/Reports/Board of Directors

41. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
41
Travis Tangye
Lieutenant
City of Belvidere Fire Department, IL
“In this critical role, Lt. Tangye has developed a
comprehensive multi-year master training plan that
ensures the department consistently meets all necessary
training objectives…. Beyond scheduling and logistics, he
plays a pivotal role in helping firefighters maintain their
required certifications, ensuring that the team's
qualifications remain current and compliant. His
leadership and strategic planning significantly contribute
to the department's operational readiness and overall
safety.”
- Shawn Schadle, Fire Chief

42. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
42
Jeff Groneck
Recruiter
Fort Mitchell Fire Department, KY
“His commitment to providing high-quality training
and maintaining high expectations for department
members ensures that firefighters are well-prepared
and motivated to perform their duties effectively. This
not only enhances the department's operational
capabilities but also instills confidence in the
community they serve.”
- Dave Slusser, Fire Chief

43. Confidential and Proprietary
2024 Training Officer Recognition Award Nominees
43
Brandon Sanson
Training Captain
Timber Lakes Volunteer Fire
Department, TX
“Created a training program for both volunteers and
crew, while also overseeing the volunteer cadet
academy.”
- TJ Hosler, Operations Captain