By LISA MACNEIL
Scott Hechler, Hernando County’s Director of Public Safety and Fire Chief was recognized at the March 21, 2021 board of county commissioners (BOCC) meeting for his designation of Chief Fire Officer by the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE https://www.cpse.org).
County Administrator Jeff Rogers introduced Hechler’s recognition, citing the required process for this designation. Aside from technical competence and community involvement, a complete portfolio of Hechler’s career, which includes education, letters of recommendation, professional development certificates and professional contributions were considered for the honor.
Hechler credits his practice of continuous learning as a large contributor to his success, and hopes to inspire other county Fire Department leaders to do the same and assemble a portfolio for the same honor.
Rogers said that a CPSE Reviewer had communicated with him regarding the draft of the application, and said “It was the best application that he’s personally ever seen, and he had no recommendations for edits …”
According to CPSE, “Designation considers broad professional accomplishments and recognizes lifelong career excellence and achievement.”
To date, Hechler is one of 1,551 Chief Fire Officers designated by CPSE.
