The Charles County Volunteer Firemen’s Association sponsored Pro Board certification for local fire service members this morning at the Southern Maryland Regional Training Center.

Fire department personnel from across Charles County gathered to receive individual training certifications, supporting career advancement through training provided by the University of Maryland Fire Rescue Institute.

The Maryland Fire Service Personnel Qualifications Board establishes an internationally recognized system for acknowledging professional achievement within the fire service and related fields. Its primary goal is to accredit agencies that certify uniformed members of public fire departments, both career and volunteer, and to include participation from other agencies with fire protection interests.

The Charles County Volunteer Firemen’s Association provided a $2,000 stipend to cover all expenses associated with Pro Board certification for the 87 participating fire department members, ensuring cost was not a barrier to professional development.

Pictured from left to right are:
Tim Huntt, Charles County VFA Delegate Representative
Eddie Godwin, Charles County VFA Alternate Representative
Mary Ann Arhar, SMRTC Administrative Assistant
Ed Rashinskas, Acting Coordinator, SMRTC
Seated: Chief Bob Rose, MFRI Certification Manager

The Charles County Volunteer Firemen’s Association thanks the SMRTC staff for hosting the certification session and supporting members’ professional growth.

The Association also recognizes Chief Dan Stevens, a long-serving and distinguished board member of the Maryland Fire Service Personnel Qualifications Board, for his dedicated service until his passing last year. His commitment to advancing professional standards in the fire service leaves a lasting legacy.