HC0059 - Jared Vermeulen - Fire Capt - Author of "The Modern Fire Officer"

Jared Vermeulen, a South Florida fire captain with nearly 20 years in the fire service and author of The Modern Fire Officer.

Jared shares his unconventional journey into firefighting, his early involvement in special operations, and the lessons that shaped his leadership philosophy. The conversation explores firehouse culture, mentorship, career development, and the evolving responsibilities of today’s fire officers.

https://modernfireofficer.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Fire-Officer-Building-Endures-ebook/dp/B0GQDNXM6T?ref_=saga_ast_ss_dsk_dp

0:00 – Introduction
The host introduces the Hazard Class Podcast and welcomes fire captain and author Jared Vermeulen.

2:18 – Jared’s Origin Story
Jared explains how he originally planned to pursue industrial design before firefighter friends encouraged him to try the fire service.

3:25 – Special Operations Career Path
Early in his career, Jared pursued specialized rescue disciplines including rope rescue, trench rescue, confined space, hazmat, and vehicle machinery rescue.

4:59 – EMS and Fire Service Operations
Discussion of how South Florida fire departments operate integrated EMS systems where firefighters frequently function as paramedics and handle a high volume of medical calls.

7:13 – Becoming a Paramedic First
Jared attended paramedic school before fire academy due to hiring delays, which ultimately helped him secure a position with his department.

9:39 – Training and Probation
New hires undergo an intensive onboarding program and rigorous medical protocol training before operating independently.

14:49 – Traveling Before the Fire Service
Before becoming a firefighter, Jared spent significant time traveling throughout Central and South America, gaining life experience that shaped his worldview.

16:16 – Perspective from Ecuador
A powerful story about working with shrimp fishermen in Ecuador highlights how travel helped him gain appreciation for life and opportunity in the United States.

21:07 – The Firefighter Mindset
Jared discusses how many firefighters are driven by a desire for challenge, adventure, and testing themselves under pressure.

24:00 – Early Years in the Firehouse
Starting as the youngest member on his crews, Jared learned from firefighters with decades of experience.

26:27 – Learning Through Observation
He emphasizes that much of the best learning occurs during everyday calls through observation, discussion, and informal training moments.

32:24 – Promotions and Leadership
Jared reflects on moving quickly through the ranks and navigating the challenges of leading firefighters who once trained him.

40:06 – Why Become a Fire Officer
He explains that becoming a captain was about shaping culture and building a firehouse environment where firefighters can succeed.

42:08 – The Invisible Work of Leadership
Much of leadership involves unseen responsibilities—mentoring, managing relationships, and supporting firefighters through difficult calls.

45:41 – Developing Future Officers
Firefighters who aspire to lead must begin building technical competence, leadership ability, and strong relationships early in their careers.

49:57 – The Modern Fire Officer
Jared explains the concept behind his book and how the fire service has evolved due to expanded responsibilities, public scrutiny, and increasing expectations.

53:13 – Wearing Multiple Leadership Hats
Modern fire officers must act as incident commanders, mentors, coaches, and peer supporters depending on the situation.

55:22 – Mentorship in the Fire Service
A lack of mentorship is one of the biggest leadership gaps in many departments. Intentional mentoring programs are essential for developing future leaders.

58:25 – Morale and Firehouse Culture
Station-level officers play a critical role in shaping morale, while administrators must provide support and empowerment for those leaders.