The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) recently celebrated the addition of 14 new recruits and the promotion of several key personnel. The ceremony, held at Action Church in Winter Park and led by Fire Chief Matt Kinley, highlighted the department’s dedication to excellence and community service.
Welcoming New Recruits
The ceremony welcomed 14 new recruits who have joined the Seminole County Fire Department as probationary firefighters. Many of these new members grew up in or currently live in Seminole County, demonstrating a strong connection to the community they will serve.
Honoring Service with Promotions
Deputy Chief of Administration: Matt Hettler
Matt Hettler was promoted from Assistant Chief to Deputy Chief of Administration. Hettler, who began his career with the Casselberry Fire Department in 2007, delivered a keynote address reflecting on his journey and the department’s growth.
Assistant Chief of Professional Standards and Training: Daniel Bowen
Daniel Bowen joined SCFD as the Assistant Chief of Professional Standards and Training after serving as Division Chief of the City of Deltona Fire Department.
Assistant Chief—B Shift Commander: Joel Herrera
Former Battalion Chief Joel Herrera was promoted to Assistant Chief—B Shift Commander, recognizing his leadership and commitment to the SCFD.
Keynote Address Highlights
Deputy Chief Hettler emphasized the importance of character and dedication in his address: “Your decisions are a reflection of your character. You have decided to train hard and now the work continues on the field. The person you are on and off duty is a representation of SCFD, and we want you to continue to grow and make us proud.”
A Community-Focused Approach
By promoting from within and recruiting individuals connected to Seminole County, the SCFD maintains a strong community focus. This approach ensures that the team is dedicated to serving the residents of Seminole County effectively.
Training and Preparedness
The new recruits underwent rigorous training to prepare them for their roles as probationary firefighters. SCFD emphasizes continuous learning and professional development to maintain high standards of service.
Looking Forward
The promotions and graduation of Class 24-01 mark a new chapter for SCFD. With well-trained recruits and experienced leaders, the department is poised to continue its tradition of excellence in serving Seminole County.