Matthew Kirschner
Clarkesville
Summary
Hardworking firefighter with extensive experience in fire suppression, emergency medical services, and training. Demonstrates strong ability in conducting rescue operations, operating firefighting equipment, and executing fire prevention measures. Known for being methodical and valuing order, consistently completing tasks quickly with minimal errors.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Ranger
Georgia Forestry Commission
08.2025 - Current
- Conducted regular safety inspections of gear and equipment to ensure operational readiness during wildfire incidents.
- Collaborated with team members to develop strategic fire suppression plans based on environmental assessments.
- Implemented best practices for maintaining physical fitness and endurance critical for firefighting roles.
Senior Firefighter
DeKalb County Fire Rescue
03.2021 - 07.2025
- Demonstrated proficiency in operating a variety of firefighting vehicles and equipment.
- Responded to fire alarms and other emergency situations or calls for service such as MVCs and EMS incidents.
- Performed interior fire suppression as well as primary and secondary searches for victims.
- Collaborated with other firefighters as member of firefighting crew.
- Assessed fires and situations and report conditions to command.
- Prepared written reports that detail specifics of fire incidents.
- Maintained fire stations and fire fighting equipment and apparatus.
Groundsman
McAllister Tree Services
01.2021 - 03.2021
- Operated a variety of equipment such as chain saws, chippers, hand tools, and dump bed trucks.
- Cleaned up after work was completed ensuring no debris was left behind at the site.
- Maintained and repaired tools and equipment.
Motor Transport Operator
United States Marine Corps
12.2016 - 12.2020
- Operated heavy-duty trucks on and off road in convoys and singular vehicle trips.
- Prepared and delivered convoy briefs to all members taking part in the convoy. Briefs covered primary and secondary routes, potential hazards, load plans, checkpoints, comms, and security.
- Maintained vehicles with regular inspections, fluid level checks, and minor repairs.
- Drove straight trucks and tractor-trailer combinations to transport cargo, personnel and heavy equipment to field locations.
- Ensured loads were properly placed and secured prior to departing.
- Completed pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
- Interpreted maps to determine vehicle routes.
Education
High School Diploma -
Habersham Central High School
Mt. Airy, GASkills
- Fire suppression
- Fireground communications
- Building construction
- Emergency medical response
- Fire apparatus operation
- Incident command system
- Critical thinking
- Trauma assessments
Certification
- Georgia EMS License (AEMT# A032798)
- NPQ Firefighter 1 and 2
- EVOC
- Basic Life Support
- NPQ HAZMAT awareness and operations
Timeline
Ranger
Georgia Forestry Commission
08.2025 - Current
Senior Firefighter
DeKalb County Fire Rescue
03.2021 - 07.2025
Groundsman
McAllister Tree Services
01.2021 - 03.2021
Motor Transport Operator
United States Marine Corps
12.2016 - 12.2020
High School Diploma -
Habersham Central High School