The Union County Fire Marshal's Office has reached a significant professional milestone, underscoring its commitment to public safety, fire prevention and excellence in service. Every member of the Fire Marshal's Office team has now earned a fire inspection certification, and all primary field investigators are certified as fire investigators, representing the highest level of training and expertise in their field.

"This achievement is a reflection of the extraordinary dedication and commitment of our entire team," said Fire Marshal Jon Williams. "These certifications enhance our level of expertise to safeguard our community through fire prevention and investigation."

In addition to this milestone, several team members recently completed advanced professional achievements:

• Deputy Fire Marshal John Helms completed the North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs' Executive Development Program, an intensive leadership program designed for senior fire service professionals. The program focuses on executive-level skills related to leadership, management, community protection, accreditation, legislation, emergency management, budgeting, recruitment and retention, data analysis, and responder wellness.
• Assistant Fire Marshals Michael Belk and Chad Baucom achieved North Carolina Certified Fire Investigator (NC-CFI) status - the highest-level fire investigation certification issued by the state. The designation requires years of education, training, experience, and testing.
• Assistant Fire Marshals Zeb Mullis and Chad Baucom earned their North Carolina Fire Officer III certifications. This advanced certification includes an intensive 80-hour course and significant preparation outside the classroom, focusing on leadership and operational excellence.
• Administrative Professional Beth Belk earned her North Carolina Fire Inspector Level I certification through the North Carolina Code Officials Qualification Board. The certification requires extensive coursework, hands-on inspections, and passing a comprehensive state exam. Although her role is primarily administrative, Belk regularly assists with public education, fire investigations, and inspections.

"Our Fire Marshal's Office sets the standard for excellence in public safety," said Deputy County Manager Patrick Niland. "Achieving 100% certification across the team demonstrates how committed this group is to providing excellent service, continuously improving, and ensuring the safety of everyone who lives, works, and visits Union County."

The Fire Marshal's Office protects lives and property through fire code enforcement, plan review, fire investigations, public education, and training support. The office inspects buildings from construction through occupancy, reviews commercial development plans, investigates fires upon request from fire chiefs, and delivers safety education and training to residents and fire departments. 

For more information about the Fire Marshal's Office and its work, visit the Union County website.