272. The Overcomplication of the Fire Service - Justin McCarthy

With over 20 years in the fire service, Assistant Chief Justin McCarthy has learned one thing along the way, you can't replace people. As technology advances and we find ways to do more with less, Justin knows that it's the people that make the difference on the fireground. From his early volunteer days, Justin knew he wanted the experience within an urban department. New Haven, CT became home for Justin, where he had to relearn the job the New Haven way, which was so important to his foundation beginnings as a city fireman. Moving up through the department, he rode with some of the busiest companies and found his way to the Training Academy which lead him to the AC spot. During his tenure, Justin was responsible for so many different opportunities including the organization of their ceremonial unit for recognizing their fallen. During this time, New Haven Firefighter Ricardo Torres was killed while operating on the fireground on May 12, 2021. A memorable time in Justin's career, a time that we will never forget. From New Haven, Justin took an opportunity to change the scenery and took a job as the Assistant Chief in Greenwich, CT. A new zip code with a while new set of operational challenges. Like his beginning in New Haven, he has had to sit back and listen, learn the Greenwich way and find where he can compliment their department. Justin is up for the challenge and in enjoying his new role. He brings with him a simple approach by not overcomplicating the job. "Added layers, added problems." Justin has plenty of time ahead of him to continue forward progress in the fire service by protecting the old school mentality while allowing growth within his ranks. Maintaining a level of continuity across the board is important to Justin and his approach represents this challenge each day he educates the next generation of firefighters.