William Behnke
Terre Haute
Summary
Dynamic leader with extensive experience at Honey Creek Fire Department, excelling in emergency medical services and fire suppression. Proven track record in team collaboration and problem-solving, mentoring new firefighters, and enhancing operational efficiency. Committed to fostering a culture of safety and professionalism while achieving community engagement through effective prevention and program development.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lieutenant
Honey Creek Fire Department
01.2021 - Current
- Prepared detailed reports of fires, medical calls and personnel.
- Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of new members.
- Demonstrated strong leadership skills while serving as a mentor to new firefighters, fostering a culture of teamwork and professionalism within the department.
- Preserved order and discipline among subordinates and gave assignments and instructions daily.
- Provided support during critical situations or emergencies when needed while maintaining composure under pressure.
- Prepared and adjusted schedules to cover staffing demand.
Firefighter/EMT
Honey Creek Fire Department
05.2005 - 01.2021
- Performed life-saving procedures during medical emergencies, administering CPR and first aid as needed.
- Drove and operated structural pumpers, tankers, ladders, and service vehicles to aid in rescue operations.
- Collaborated with fellow firefighters to execute efficient firefighting strategies, mitigating property damage and loss of life.
- Participated in physical fitness and training programs to maintain preparedness and stamina for fire rescues.
- Improved operational efficiency by helping maintain apparatuses, equipment, and facilities according to established standards.
- Assisted with yearly fire safety education programs, reaching over 300 clients annually.
Process Associate
AET
03.2005 - 05.2007
- Collaborated with team members for enhanced process efficiency and productivity.
- Managed multiple tasks simultaneously, ensuring timely completion of all assignments.
- Trained new team members on best practices and company-specific procedures, enhancing overall team performance.
- Participated in regular team meetings, contributing valuable insights toward process enhancements.
Director of Recreation
City of Terre Haute Parks & Recreation Department
05.1997 - 11.2004
- Enhanced community engagement by developing and promoting diverse recreational programs and events.
- Oversaw staff recruitment, training, and performance evaluations to maintain a high-quality team of recreation professionals.
- Collaborated with local organizations to create partnerships that benefited the community through shared resources and events.
- Purchased necessary equipment and sports materials to use for recreational activities.
- Ensured compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to recreation programming, facilities, and safety standards.
- Maintained accurate records of program participation, facility usage, financial data, and incident reports for proper documentation purposes.
Recreation Assistant
City of Terre Haute Parks & Recreation
01.1995 - 05.1997
- Assisted the Parks and Recreation Department in various roles and facets starting as an intern and working my way up.
- Ensured proper supervision of program participants at all times, prioritizing their safety and wellbeing.
- Trained new staff members within the park programs and swimming pool operations on department policies and procedures, promoting consistency across the team.
- Supervised camper activities to address behavioral issues and promote fun, safety and inclusivity.
Education
Fire Certifications -
Vigo County Fire Academy
Terre Haute, IN03-2006
Bachelor of Science - Recreation Management
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN05-1995
High School Diploma -
Deerfield High School
Deerfield, IL05-1990
Skills
Problem Solving
Team Work and Collaboration
Fire Prevention
Emergency Medical Services
Fire Supression
Certification
Basic Firefighter
Mandatory Firefighter
Firefighter I
Firefighter II
Emergency Medical Technician
Emergency Vehicle Operator
Fire Officer I
Fire Officer Strategy & Tactics
Haz Mat 1st Responder Awareness
Haz Mat 1st Responder Operations
Technical Rescue Awareness
Vehicle Machinery Rescue Operations
NIMS 100, 200, 700, 800
Completed Arkansas First in Fire Conference School '24
National Child Passenger Safety Certification
IAFF Peer Fitness Trainer
IAFF Peer Support Trained
Affiliations
- Sons of the American Revolution
- Boy Scouts of America
- Wabash Valley Girls Youth Rec League Coach
- Board Member, Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity
Timeline
Lieutenant
Honey Creek Fire Department
01.2021 - Current
Firefighter/EMT
Honey Creek Fire Department
05.2005 - 01.2021
Process Associate
AET
03.2005 - 05.2007
Director of Recreation
City of Terre Haute Parks & Recreation Department
05.1997 - 11.2004
Recreation Assistant
City of Terre Haute Parks & Recreation
01.1995 - 05.1997
Fire Certifications -
Vigo County Fire Academy
Bachelor of Science - Recreation Management
Indiana State University
High School Diploma -
Deerfield High School
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