Sherry Greenfield
Carroll County Times, Westminster, Md.
(TNS)
Aug. 6—Carroll County has hired a deputy chief of operations, a newly created management position to provide oversight and leadership in the county’s Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services.
Paul Supko, of Westminster, started Aug. 1, as second in command under Michael Robinson, chief and director of the department.
“I am driven to achieve an effective leadership role in our career/volunteer Fire/EMS system, where I can contribute to the growth and success of the team while involving all members; career, volunteer and civilian personnel,” Supko stated in a county news release.
Supko will manage the daily operations of the department at an annual salary of $112,000.
Robinson told the Board of Carroll County Commissioners in April that the individual hired could help to reduce the department’s turnover rate, since that person could handle any issues as they happen.
The chief of operations position was not originally planned when commissioners unanimously approved an ordinance to create the fire/EMS department in October 2020.
Robinson said at the April meeting that over time they have seen that the four shift commanders overseeing daily operations is not enough. At that meeting, commissioners unanimously approved the creation of the position.
Supko worked at the Anne Arundel County Fire Department for 33 years. His most recent position was captain and executive officer of training and research. He also served as commander of the company’s special operations.
Supko is a nationally certified Fire Officer IV, Emergency Services Instructor and holds numerous special operations credentials including Haz-Mat technician, rescue diver, rescue technician and an incident safety officer.
He is a previous member of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Urban Search and Rescue Maryland Task Force. He also served as a volunteer and career employee with the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. 1, for more than 10 years.
“Paul has a wealth of knowledge and expertise that will prove to be an asset to the department,” Robinson stated in the news release. “We welcome him and look forward to working with him to enhance services throughout the county.”
Originally Published:August 6, 2024 at 3:29 p.m.
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