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Deputy Fire Chief Stephen T. Slaman Receives Accreditation Through the Massachusetts Fire Services Commission

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The Massachusetts Fire Service Commission granted accreditation to Deputy Fire Chief Stephen T. Slaman of the Hopkinton Fire Department on 15 September 2015 who has demonstrated the required fire service experience, education, and certifications for accreditation.

This accreditation is granted through the Massachusetts Fire Service Commission, a gubernatorial appointed board that has established a process for uniform credentialing for the level of fire chief. Everett Fire Chief David Butler, who serves as chair of the commission says, “The program establishes requirements based on education, training and experience in areas relevant to serving as fire chief. It establishes benchmarks for training in fire and emergency service management so that chiefs may be better prepared to serve their department and their community.” The applicant’s documentation is reviewed by a subcommittee of the Massachusetts Fire Service Commission to determine if the individual has attained a minimum level of credits for education, training, and experience.

State Fire Marshal Stephen Coan said, “The program was developed after extensive research outlining those skills important to today’s fire chief. The process provides an equal opportunity for the volunteer, call or full-time fire service leader to meet the minimum criteria for achieving fire chief accreditation.”

Deputy Chief Slaman said, “I am dedicated to providing the highest level of service to this community and have worked hard to continue my education and experience to bring a high level of professionalism to this position. I appreciate that this accomplishment recognizes my dedication to be the best fire service leader I can be for this community.”

Credentialed participants will be required to renew their credentials every three years. The program is open to all members of the fire service in the Commonwealth serving as Chief or Chief Officer of Department. Additionally, in fire departments where there are less than three Chief Officers, those persons holding the next lower rank in that department shall also be eligible to apply for credentialing. Participation in this program is voluntary and all eligible personnel are encouraged to participate.