(OCALA, FL.) April 5, 2024 – Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR) is proud to announce a series of promotions and new hires that underscore the department's commitment to excellence and community service. These developments come at a time when OFR is seeking dedicated individuals eager to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.
We are delighted to share the remarkable achievements of our team members. Pat Feagle has been promoted from Captain to Battalion Chief; Thiago Novaes has advanced from Fire Equipment Operator to Captain; and Justin Hoke has transitioned from Firefighter to Fire Equipment Operator. Their dedication and hard work serve as a beacon of inspiration for their colleagues and the community.
Alongside these promotions, we are thrilled to welcome our new team members: Firefighters/EMTs Elijah Day, Isaac Dorland, and Coye Fant, who joined us in March, and Firefighters/EMTs Delano Christie, Anthony Richardson, Nicholas Slater, and Nicholas Vaders - who were sworn in today. Each of them brings a unique set of skills and a fresh perspective, enhancing our mission to serve the Ocala community with courage, compassion, and professionalism.
"As we celebrate these achievements, we are also looking to the future," said Clint Welborn, Ocala Fire Rescue's Fire Chief. "We are seeking passionate and dedicated candidates to join our ranks."
Applications are now open and testing for Firefighters/EMTs and Firefighters/Paramedics is slated for early May. OFR encourages qualified candidates to visit www.ocalafl.gov/employment for a complete list of qualifications, job functions, and information on our comprehensive benefits package.
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About Ocala Fire Rescue: Established in 1885, Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR) is a non-transport ALS department with seven fire stations that caters to a population of over 63,000 people. This number nearly doubles during peak traffic hours due to the numerous state roads and interstate exits extending across the county seat.
OFR boasts 154 employees, with 137 dedicated to emergency response. In 2023, OFR responded to over 26,000 service calls within our 47 square-mile response area, covering both city limits and unincorporated regions. Ocala Fire Rescue offers a comprehensive array of services, including technical rescue, fire prevention, community education, fire code enforcement, fire investigation, and aircraft rescue and firefighting, in addition to fire suppression and emergency medical response.
