Land O Lakes, FL - Pasco County Fire Rescue Deputy Chief of Operations Brian Swartout has been awarded Chief Fire Officer credentials by the Commission on Professional Credentialing.

The Commission unanimously awards Deputy Chief Swartout the Chief Fire Officer designation, a professional designation model that recognizes career excellence and offers continuous personal improvement strategies. Deputy Chief Swartout is one of 1,494 Credentialed Chief Fire Officers worldwide.

“We commend Deputy Chief Swartout’s efforts and dedication in achieving this personal and professional milestone,” said Richard Mason, Center for Public Safety Excellence Program Manager.

"I'm proud of Chief Swartout's investment in his career, department, and community," said Fire Chief Scott Cassin. “Chief Swartout's dedication to obtaining his CFO designation shows his commitment to the men and women of Pasco County Fire Rescue and the community they serve."

Certification is recognition of meeting a specific professional qualification standard. Designation considers broad professional accomplishments and recognizes lifelong career excellence and achievement. These achievements are verified and validated through a third-party peer review process.

Deputy Chief Swartout marks the third member of the Pasco County Fire Rescue Senior Staff to receive this prestigious award and highlights the staffs’ commitment to excellence.

Deputy Chief Brian Swartout joined Pasco County Fire Rescue in 2019, after serving as the Fire Chief of Zephyrhills Fire and Rescue.