S5 E8: Eric Merill more on training, generations, new recruits, and more! Part 2
Episode description
Growing up in Nebraska, I developed a love for God, community, and service. Directly out of high school, I decided to forgo an opportunity to play NAIA college football and pursue an Associate in Fire Protection Technology, from Southeast Community College. I started my fire service career as a resident firefighter in Snowmass Village, CO. I relocated to Prescott, Arizona in 2006, then started my full-time career with Pine Strawberry Fire District. I have served the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority since 2006, in all ranks up through Training Chief, along with obtaining my Paramedic certification, and member of the wildland team. I had the privilege of serving for ten years as Political Director, and Executive Officer for the IAFF Local 3066. In my career, I have had the pleasure of serving in many training avenues locally, and at the state level. I also have served as an investigator after obtaining my IAAI Fire/ Arson Investigator I and II. I am a constant learner, and an advocate for higher education. I graduated with a B.S. in Fire Administration, from Columbia Southern University in 2018, magna cum laude. I then completed my Certified Public Manager, through Arizona State University, while lateraling into the Training Division from Engine work. I graduated with my M.A. in Organizational Leadership, with an emphasis in Emergency Management Leadership Concentration, in May of 2023, summa cum laude. Within four-months of graduating with my M.A, I promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief, and lateraled
to the Chief of Training. I have a beautiful wife and two kids, whom I am intentional to have by my side throughout my career, and retirement. I have served as coach for my son's little league baseball team, and youth football team. In February, I hope to complete Phase-Training with The Mighty Oaks Foundation, to then serve in the capacity of Team Leader. I currently am humbled to serve as an instructor for ISFSI, with the delivery of NFPA 1400: Roadmap for the Modern Fire Instructor, being disseminated across 25 locations throughout the country over the next year.
Email me at 3pointFirefighter@Gmail.Com
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Email me at 3pointFirefighter@Gmail.Com
Check out our Facebook Page 3 point Firefighter Podcast
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YouTube Channel
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3 PFF Merch
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