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By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

PELHAM – The Pelham Fire Department has announced Matt Maples as the new chief of EMS and Training Division, a recently created position that is a consolidation of existing duties and responsibilities within the department.

The position was introduced at a Pelham City Council work session on Monday, Jan. 22 by Fire Chief Mike Reid. A resolution was then passed at the subsequent council meeting making the position official.

The position’s duties will include, but are not limited to, the coordination of fire training within the department and the coordination of activities of persons involved in delivering emergency medical assistance within the department.

Maples said that his work in the fire service is a culmination of his childhood dreams, and that he is no stranger to the Pelham area.

“Joining the fire service was a childhood aspiration that never went away,” Maples said. “I was fortunate enough to start my career for the city of Pelham back in 2003, the day after I got married and I have never looked back.”

The job of a first responder is never put on pause, but Maples also added that the education that comes from the job never ceases as well, which is what compelled him to take the position.

“In our profession, learning never stops, but along the way I felt the need to share some of my experiences with members of our department,” Maples said. “It was the most career-rewarding decision I ever made.”

Maples then added what he is most excited for in this position.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to refine and enhance our training programs to ensure our personnel are fully equipped to handle any emergency,” Maples said. “Training is the backbone of an effective fire department, and I look forward to supporting our department members in their growth and development.”

Furthermore, Maples delved into the responsibilities of firefighters and paramedics, as well as what he will specifically be teaching.

“Firefighter/Paramedics are responsible for a wide range of skills, including technical proficiency, critical thinking, teamwork and physical endurance,” Maples said. “In addition to our current medical training program, I plan on focusing on live-fire training, increasing the number of certifications courses hosted at our department and collaborating with our command staff on incident management training.”

Finally, Maples added that his biggest mentor in life is his father, and the life lessons he taught him at a young age led him to the position he is in today.

“My father has always been my number one mentor,” Maples said. “Throughout his life, he has worked harder than anyone I know. I’m very fortunate that his hard work was instilled in me at an early age.”

For more information on the Pelham Fire Department, visit Pelhamalabama.gov/185/Fire-Department.