HoCo Fire Chief Named Chair Of State Commission

COLUMBIA, MD - From Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services: Deputy Chief John Jerome of the Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDFRS) has been appointed by Maryland Governor Larry Hogan as Chairperson of the Maryland Fire-Rescue Education and Training Commission (MFRETC). The MFRETC has the responsibility of overseeing education and training activities for Maryland's fire, rescue, and emergency medical services personnel.

“This appointment speaks volumes about the leadership of our fire department,” said Howard County Executive Allan H. Kittleman. “We know Deputy Chief Jerome is an innovative leader here in Howard County and it’s great to see him share his expertise at the state level.”

Deputy Chief Jerome, who has served on the commission since 2011, will oversee the future needs and improvements that the fire and emergency medical education and training programs may require.

A 25-year veteran of HCDFRS, Deputy Chief Jerome began his fire service career here in Howard County with the Ellicott City Volunteer Fire Department, and continued on in the career service, rising through the ranks. He has been a paramedic for 28 years, holds a bachelor’s degree in economics, a post-graduate certificate in distance education, and is a graduate of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer program. He is known for his high level of involvement, his advocacy for emergency medical services, fireground command safety, provider education, and the importance of instructing and mentoring. He is an innovative
management officer whose leadership has resulted in a model community heart attack care system, national accreditation of the Department's paramedic education program, and numerous cutting-edge education programs.

“Deputy Chief Jerome has represented HCDFRS in various roles throughout his 25-year career,” said Fire Chief John S. Butler. “We are proud that he will have yet another opportunity to share his expertise, especially when it comes to the future of Maryland’s emergency services training and education. It’s rewarding to see Howard County DFRS talent be recognized and contributing elsewhere in the state, region, and nationally.”

MFRETC carries out responsibilities of the Maryland Higher Education Commission related to training and post-secondary education. It is composed of thirteen members who are appointed by the Governor of Maryland with guidance and approval of the Senate. For more information please contact the Office of Community Outreach and Media Affairs at 410-313-6039.

Photo courtesy of Benjamin Kerensa via Unsplash