Carroll County Chairman Michelle Morgan had the honor of swearing in Brandy Polk as the new Division Chief of Training on Friday, September 9, 2022. Division Chief Polk has an impressive background and resume, never stopping short in her willingness to train and learn throughout her extensive career in the fire service. Polk holds certifications as a NPQ Firefighter I & II, NIMS, and as a basic fire instructor, NPQ I & II fire instructor, NPQ evaluator, Fire Control instructor, along with multiple other specialized areas of instruction, along with completing the Georgia FLAMES certification, and extensive training in leadership for fire and EMS.
Division Chief Polk made history on Friday by being sworn in as the first female ranked as a Chief in Carroll County Fire Rescue history. In a profession dominated by men, Polk has stood out, broken her own ground, and deserves this position, not because of her gender, but by her talent, her abilities to lead, and the respect she receives from her fellow firefighters.
“I am excited about Firefighter Polk being promoted into this prestigious position, and I believe she will foster a training program that gives Carroll County Fire Rescue an opportunity to embrace this challenge.” Chairman Michelle Morgan stated after the swearing in ceremony.
Division Chief Polk will be responsible for 122 fire rescue personnel as being the main source of contact for all training needs, record keeping, and developing and implementing training that will challenge and shape the staff from here forward, while keeping the foundation of what makes Carroll County Fire Rescue the family and community oriented department it has become.
Chief Chuck Barnwell said, “We are very proud to bring Chief Polk into the administrative ranks. We know she will hit the ground running to improve not only Carroll County Fire Rescue’s training, but will continue to build strong relationships with other area departments. Together, we will be able to collaborate and improve training for all of the West Georgia area.”
The swearing in ceremony was attended by many of Chief Polk’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters. Chief Polk said in a statement, “I am honored and humbled to serve the firefighters and citizens of Carroll County. Over the past sixteen years, I have worked hard to prepare myself for a position in this capacity. I am dedicated to work hard for Carroll County Fire Rescue and build a positive training program to benefit the firefighters, department, and community. I am grateful for the support thus far and will continue to diligently improve myself to help others. Again, I am thankful and honored to be the new Division Chief of Training for Carroll County Fire Rescue.”
