BUCKHANNON — BUCKHANNON – The Buckhannon Fire Department has officially promoted two of its full-time career staff members, including the first woman in the city’s history to hold the title of Firefighter First Class.
Buckhannon career firefighters Maria Potter and Shane Jenkins, who were first hired by the city in 2021, can say their ranks are now officially Firefighter First Class, a step up from full-time Firefighter.
Buckhannon Fire Chief J.B. Kimble commended Jenkins and Potter for their achievement at Buckhannon City Council’s Dec. 5 meeting, where they received their new ‘Firefighter First Class’ badges.
“Three years ago, Shane Jenkins and Maria Potter took the vow to be firefighters,” Kimble said. “They had careers at the time – Maria was a nurse, and Shane worked at the post office.”
The Buckhannon Fire Department, however, was testing for full-time paid positions, and both took a gamble.
“They were part of the fire department to begin with on the volunteer side, and I think both of them caught the bug of wanting more in the fire service,” Kimble said. “For them to venture out of those full-time positions that they had and into the fire service, in today’s world, is a risk sometimes, but here we are today, three years later.”
Kimble said the change was “eye-opening,” but both persevered and became crucial assets to the BFD.
“The growth that these two have committed to is huge,” the fire chief said. “Some of the events that they’ve been on – and some of the outcomes they’ve provided for our community – is huge, and tonight they’re here with them and with their families to celebrate three years.”
“Keeping people [employed] and keeping them motivated is rough nowadays, but here we are three years later,” Kimble added.
Individuals are initially employed as probationary firefighters when hired by the City of Buckhannon, and once their probationary period is over, their rank is ‘Firefighter.’ Kimble said the rank promotion to ‘Firefighter First Class’ is automatic after three years of employment.
In two more years, Jenkins and Potter will be eligible to test for higher ranks like lieutenant.
Buckhannon City Recorder, who led the meeting because Mayor Robbie Skinner was unable to attend, congratulated Potter and Jenkins on their promotions, as did each city council member.
