Pasco Reporter

Pasco County Fire Rescue announces first-ever Certified Fire Officer through the Center of Public Safety Excellence 

We have some big news to share here at Pasco County Fire Rescue! Training Captain Kyle Paton has completed the process that awards the professional designation of "Fire Officer" (FO). Captain Paton becomes the first ever credentialed fire officer in Pasco County Fire Rescue history and one of only 664 FOs worldwide.  

The Designation program is a voluntary program to recognize individuals who demonstrate excellence in seven measured components, including experience, education, professional development, professional contributions, association membership, community involvement, and technical competence. In addition, all applicants must identify a future professional development plan. 

"Captain Paton committing the time, training, and community service to become this agency’s first-ever credentialed Fire Officer highlights what moves this agency forward", said Fire Chief Scott Cassin. "His commitment to earning a designation such as this highlights his dedication to this department and the community he loves to serve", he added. 

 Captain Paton currently serves within the Pasco County Fire Rescue Training Division. While serving as a Training Captain, he values leading by example. "This is one way that I can show that you need to put your money where your mouth is," says Paton. "You need to lead from the front and by example. We must teach the next generation what you can achieve with hard work." 

 The FO designation program uses a comprehensive peer review model to evaluate candidates seeking the credential. The Commission on Professional Credentialing awards the designation only after an individual successfully meets all the organization's stringent criteria.  

 Achieving this designation signifies Training Captain Kyle Paton's career commitment to positively move the fire service forward and cement solid bonds with our community.  

This professional designation requires recipients to show continued growth in professional development, professional contributions, active association membership, and community involvement and adhere to a strict code of professional conduct. 

Please join us in congratulating Training Captain Kyle Paton on achieving his Fire Officer designation!

Original source can be found here.