PAUL PATTERSON
Dalton
Summary
Dynamic fire service leader with extensive experience at Whitfield County Fire Department, excelling in operations management and strategic planning. Proven track record in enhancing team cohesion and developing future leaders. Skilled in policy execution and incident command, driving operational efficiency and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
Work History
Chief of Fire Operations
Whitfield County Fire Department
10.2024 - Current
- Oversee a staff of 120 firefighters, 6 Battalion Chiefs, 4 Division Chiefs, and an Assistant Chief.
- Collaborate with command staff to create departmental policies and long-term strategic plans.
- Mentor and coach emerging leaders while cultivating a culture of inclusion and respect.
- Evaluate personnel performance and align staff assignments with strengths and skill levels.
- Ensure operational readiness and compliance with state and national standards.
Chief of Fire Operations
Lewis County Fire District 6
09.2023 - 08.2024
- Created and implemented actionable policies to enhance operational efficiency.
- Strengthened team cohesion through motivational leadership and professional mentoring.
- Oversaw administrative operations, fire reports, and interagency coordination.
- Improved morale and retention through targeted leadership and engagement initiatives.
Deputy Fire Chief
Long County Board of Commissioners
01.2019 - 08.2023
- Established strategic initiatives to improve response times and safety protocols.
- Led training, prevention, and public education programs.
- Represented the department at state and regional emergency management meetings.
- Assisted in creating comprehensive emergency response and continuity plans.
Firefighter / Sergeant
City of Detroit
03.1992 - 04.2017
- Responded to structure fires, medical emergencies, and hazardous incidents.
- Operated apparatus and equipment to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Promoted to Sergeant in 2012; led a 4-person crew with responsibility for operations, training, and compliance.
- Conducted public fire prevention and safety education programs.
Education
Master of Science - Fire Executive Leadership, Emergency Services Management
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL09.2025
Bachelor of Applied Science - Fire Administration
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL06.2024
Associate of Arts - Business Technology
Coastal Pines Technical College
Waycross, GA06.2021
High School Diploma - Architectural Technology
Cass Technical High School
Detroit, MI06.1988
Skills
- Operations management
- Strategic planning
- Policy execution
- Conflict resolution
- Motivational leadership
- Incident command
- Staff development
- Emergency management
- Leadership development
Certifications And Credentials
- Chief Fire Officer (CFO) - Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE)
- Executive Fire Officer (EFO) Candidate - National Fire Academy (In progress)
- NPQ Firefighter I & II
- NPQ Hazmat Awareness & Operations
- NPQ Fire Instructor I
- NPQ Fire Inspector I
- ICS 100, 200, 300, 400, 700, 800
- National Registered Emergency Medical Technician
Activities
- Vice President - Lewis County Board of Fire Chiefs
- Vice Chairman - Lewis County Emergency Planning Committee
- B.S. Summa Cum Laude (4.0 GPA)
- Dedicated community leader and advocate for adaptive leadership development in the fire service
Timeline
Chief of Fire Operations
Whitfield County Fire Department
10.2024 - Current
Chief of Fire Operations
Lewis County Fire District 6
09.2023 - 08.2024
Deputy Fire Chief
Long County Board of Commissioners
01.2019 - 08.2023
Firefighter / Sergeant
City of Detroit
03.1992 - 04.2017
Master of Science - Fire Executive Leadership, Emergency Services Management
Columbia Southern University
Bachelor of Applied Science - Fire Administration
Columbia Southern University
Associate of Arts - Business Technology
Coastal Pines Technical College
High School Diploma - Architectural Technology
Cass Technical High School