Jack Smith sworn in as new Ohio Fire Academy Superintendent
The new superintendent of the Ohio Fire Academy has been sworn in, with Jack Smith taking the reins on the 22nd January by State Fire Marshal Jeff A. Hussey.
Smith, who is from Dayton, takes over from the former superintendent, Steve Gohee, who retired from his position earlier in January. Smith will be responsible for overseeing all the operations of the academy, which includes training grounds, personnel, curriculum and training programs. The academy itself was founded in 1967.
Prior to being sworn in, Smith was the fire education coordinator at the Ohio Department of Public Safety Division of EMS, and has racked up 32 years of combined fire service leadership experience, which includes serving as associate director of the National Center for Readiness at the Wright State University for 10 years.
In addition, Smith held the ranks of lieutenant, safety officer, training officer, battalion chief and shift commander at Jefferson Township Fire Department in Montgomery County and Sharonville Fire Department in Cincinnati, so say the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
“Jack’s main priority will be continuing to ensure the delivery of high-quality instruction and programming and working to expand the access of training throughout the state,” Ohio Department of Commerce Director Jacqueline T. Williams said. “With his leadership and training experience, he is well suited to help the academy continue to provide world-class training to the fire service.”
Following on from that, Hussey had his say on the appointment. “We are excited to welcome Jack to our team,” Hussey said. “He is a passionate fire service instructor and leader, and the Ohio Fire Academy will benefit greatly from his experience and expertise.”
In his lifetime, Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Cedarville University, as well as a master’s degree in emergency and disaster management from the American Public University.
