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_dp0:00 – IntroductionThe host introduces the Hazard Class Podcast and welcomes fire captain and author Jared Vermeulen. 2:18 – Jared’s Origin StoryJared explains how he originally planned to pursue industrial design before firefighter friends encouraged him to try the fire service.3:25 – Special Operations Career PathEarly 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 OperationsDiscussion 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 FirstJared attended paramedic school before fire academy due to hiring delays, which ultimately helped him secure a position with his department.9:39 – Training and ProbationNew hires undergo an intensive onboarding program and rigorous medical protocol training before operating independently. 14:49 – Traveling Before the Fire ServiceBefore becoming a firefighter, Jared spent significant time traveling throughout Central and South America, gaining life experience that shaped his worldview.16:16 – Perspective from EcuadorA 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 MindsetJared discusses how many firefighters are driven by a desire for challenge, adventure, and testing themselves under pressure.24:00 – Early Years in the FirehouseStarting as the youngest member on his crews, Jared learned from firefighters with decades of experience.26:27 – Learning Through ObservationHe emphasizes that much of the best learning occurs during everyday calls through observation, discussion, and informal training moments.32:24 – Promotions and LeadershipJared reflects on moving quickly through the ranks and navigating the challenges of leading firefighters who once trained him.40:06 – Why Become a Fire OfficerHe explains that becoming a captain was about shaping culture and building a firehouse environment where firefighters can succeed.42:08 – The Invisible Work of LeadershipMuch of leadership involves unseen responsibilities—mentoring, managing relationships, and supporting firefighters through difficult calls.45:41 – Developing Future OfficersFirefighters who aspire to lead must begin building technical competence, leadership ability, and strong relationships early in their careers.49:57 – The Modern Fire OfficerJared 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 HatsModern fire officers must act as incident commanders, mentors, coaches, and peer supporters depending on the situation.55:22 – Mentorship in the Fire ServiceA 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 CultureStation-level officers play a critical role in shaping morale, while administrators must provide support and empowerment for those leaders.