Buffalo Grove Fire Dept. Leaders Receive International Designation

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — Longtime Buffalo Grove firefighters Mike Baker and Shawn Collins were recently received the designation "Chief Fire Officer"after successfully completing the process to earn the distinction. The Center for Public Safety Excellence’s Commission on Professional Credentialing conferred the CFO re-designation to Baker, the department's fire chief, and CFO designation to Collins, battalion chief.

Baker, who has been withe the department since 2013, and Collins, Buffalo Grove firefighter since 2002, are part of the 1,764 CFOs worldwide and the 123 CFOs in Illinois, according to the department.

The Chief Fire Officer designation is a voluntary program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate their excellence in seven measured components including experience, education, professional development, professional contributions, association membership, community involvement and technical competencies. Baker received his original designation in July 2013. To maintain the designation, individuals need to show they have continued to develop as a CFO in four areas of professional development, professional contributions, active association membership and community involvement.

"The Chief Fire Officer designation reflects the commitment to lifelong learning, skill development and community service. We are honored to receive these international designations recognizing our dedication to the proficiency and delivery of all hazard services to all who live, work or visit Buffalo Grove," Baker said.