Wes Metroka
Chico,CA
Summary
Seasoned fire service leader with 27+ years of experience rising through the ranks of the Chico Fire Department. Leadership philosophy centers on respecting tradition while driving innovation, supporting firefighter health, and delivering exceptional service to the community. Focused on building trust, expanding community risk reduction, and ensuring Chico Fire remains professional, prepared, and forward-looking.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Battalion Chief
Chico Fire Department
07.2020 - Current
- Manage the daily fire department operations to include command and control of emergency incidents, personnel, CAD and response issues, apparatus and facility needs, report review, daily training, public outreach, and staffing.
- Special projects include Peer support, ARFF/FAA Part 139, and department staffing software.
- Reviewed fire reports and payroll entries of station officers to verify accuracy and completeness.
- Evaluated team performance and implemented strategies to close gaps in skills or knowledge.
Division Chief
Chico Fire Department
07.2018 - 07.2020
- Led the department's training division. Responsible for; developing the 2-year training plan, records management, training budget management, firefighter recruitment and promotional exams, state mandated training, the fire training center and training cadre development, implementation of the officer development academy and officer command training center.
- Developed and implemented the officer development academy and the command training center.
- Duty officer for C-Shift's 48 hour work schedule.
- Created reports, presentations and other materials for executive staff.
Captain
Chico Fire Department
06.2015 - 07.2018
- Perform supervisory and technical work in routine and emergency operations of the Fire Department; supervise, coordinate, and inspect personnel and equipment as assigned; personnel development and mentorship of assigned crew members.
- Hazardous Materials Specialist
- California Certified Fire Investigator 1
- Local 2734 Executive Board/Treasurer
- Compiled and maintained log books, run reports and training records.
Education
Bachelor of Science Degree - Fire Administration
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL04.2022
Associate Degree - Fire Science
Butte College
Oroville, CA05.2014
Skills
- Emergency Command and Control
- Communication, Coordination, Collaboration
- Firefighter Health and Wellness Programs
- Interagency Coordination
- Fire Investigation Techniques
- Personnel Management and Development
- Community Relations
- Fire Training Programs
Affiliations
- California Fire Chiefs Association - Member
- International Association of Fire Chiefs - Member
- Area 2 Deputy Director, California Fire Chiefs Training Officers Association
- Fresno Training Symposium Planning Committee
- Advisor, Butte Strong Wellness Unit
- Past President, Butte County Training Officers Association
Certification
- CFSTES Chief Fire Officer
- CFSTES Fire Officer
- CFSTES Fire Investigator 1
- CSTI Hazardous Materials Specialist
- CSTI Hazardous Materials Incident Commander
- CSTI Assistant Safety Officer
- Blue Card Command Incident Commander
- Blue Card Incident Command Instructor
- SERTC Railroad Tank Car Specialist
- SERTC Crude by Rail Emergency Response
- CICCS Incident Commander, Type 4
- CICCS Strike Team/Task Force Leader
- IAFF Peer Supporter
Timeline
Battalion Chief
Chico Fire Department
07.2020 - Current
Division Chief
Chico Fire Department
07.2018 - 07.2020
Captain
Chico Fire Department
06.2015 - 07.2018
Associate Degree - Fire Science
Butte College
Bachelor of Science Degree - Fire Administration
Columbia Southern University