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Hinsdale swears in new firefighter-paramedic; fire department introduces three recent hires
Summary
The Village of Hinsdale swore in firefighter-paramedic Eric Ruiz and introduced two other recent hires to the Hinsdale Fire Department during the board meeting. Fire Chief Podolski outlined training and probation expectations and welcomed the new staff.
The Village of Hinsdale formally swore in firefighter-paramedic Eric Ruiz during the board—s regular meeting, and Village officials introduced two other recent hires to the Hinsdale Fire Department.
Fire Chief Podolski told the board and assembled family members that Ruiz recently completed paramedic training at Central DuPage Hospital, previously worked as an EMT for Buzz Ambulance covering Harvey and Dalton, and holds a bachelor—s degree in biological sciences from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Ruiz, who lives in New Lenox, is scheduled to attend the fire academy in March, Chief Podolski said.
The swearing-in took place after Village President Colling called the item and introduced the candidates. Podolski described the probationary year for new firefighter candidates as "both physically and mentally challenging," saying the candidate must "learn to complete specific tasks and make certain that they can perform them with both precision and skill." He added, "You have been given automatic trust by our citizens because of all of those who came before you. So don't blow it." Podolski also told Ruiz, "Welcome to our team. You're going to do great things here." (Fire Chief Podolski)
President Colling also introduced Assistant to the Chief Matt Daley and Fire Inspector Jay Hansen. Daley was described as a recent hire with extensive fire-service background, including having served as a fire chief at the Stanislaus Consolidated Fire Protection District in California and previously as a deputy fire chief and battalion chief in Downers Grove. Jay Hansen was introduced as a state fire marshal—s certified fire inspector and a career firefighter-paramedic with the LaMonte Fire Protection District and a member of the Combined Area Response Team (CART) Blue Team.
Podolski noted that only Ruiz required an oath at this meeting because the other two are civilian or non-sworn hires; all three were welcomed by present firefighters and family members. Family members identified in the meeting included Jimena Huiz (mother), Gustavo Huiz (father), Jacob (brother) and Samantha (girlfriend).
The board observed the ceremony and offered congratulations following the oath. The village did not take any formal council action tied to the hires at the meeting.
