Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Brandon Van Surksum

Bakersfield,CA

Summary

Experienced with emergency response and rescue operations. Utilizes critical thinking and quick decision-making to ensure safety and efficiency. Track record of effective teamwork and adherence to safety protocols.

Knowledgeable firefighter with robust background in emergency response and fire safety. Proven track record in managing high-pressure situations and executing rescue operations. Demonstrated expertise in teamwork and strategic problem-solving.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Firefighter

Kern County Fire Department
10.2022 - Current
  • Enhanced community safety by responding to various emergency situations, including fires, medical emergencies, and hazardous materials incidents.
  • Improved team efficiency with regular training sessions and drills to maintain optimal performance during emergencies.
  • Supported fellow firefighters during high-pressure situations by maintaining clear communication channels and offering necessary guidance when needed.
  • Demonstrated strong leadership skills while serving as a crew leader on multiple occasions, guiding team members to complete tasks efficiently and safely.
  • Maintained operational readiness by conducting daily checks on firefighting equipment, ensuring all gear was in proper working order.

Wildland Firefighter

Kern County Fire Department
03.2017 - 10.2022
  • Cut and cleared brush and dug trenches to create fire lines using axes, chainsaws or shovels.
  • Patrolled burnt areas after fires to locate and eliminate hot spots that could flare or rekindle.
  • Enhanced wildfire containment by coordinating and executing strategic fireline construction.
  • Upheld high standards of professionalism while interacting with the public during prescribed burns or emergency situations.
  • Optimized firefighter performance through active participation in daily physical training sessions designed to maintain endurance levels.

Farm Manager

DVS Farms
05.2007 - 03.2017
  • Operate and maintenance heavy machinery ranging from 10 tons to 40 tons
  • Managed farm staff efficiently, providing training and guidance for optimal performance.
  • Increased farm productivity by introducing modern farming practices and equipment upgrades.
  • Oversaw the maintenance of farm machinery, resulting in reduced downtime due to repairs or malfunctions.
  • Maintained a safe working environment by enforcing safety protocols and conducting regular inspections of facilities and equipment.

Education

High School Diploma -

Ridgeview High School
Bakersfield

Fire Technician

Bakersfield College
Bakersfield

Skills

  • Structural firefighting
  • Fire safety
  • Stress tolerance and resilience
  • Emergency medical service
  • Fire ground communications
  • Heavy equipment operator
  • Pump operations Fire/Farm

Certification

  • Fire Technician Certificate
  • Crew Boss Task Book
  • Plans Section Chief Task Book
  • Tree Faller Task Book

Timeline

Firefighter

Kern County Fire Department
10.2022 - Current

Wildland Firefighter

Kern County Fire Department
03.2017 - 10.2022

Farm Manager

DVS Farms
05.2007 - 03.2017

High School Diploma -

Ridgeview High School

Fire Technician

Bakersfield College
Brandon Van Surksum