For Immediate Release: April 15, 2022

The Commission on Professional Credentialing (CPC) recently voted unanimously to award Alexandria Fire Department Accreditation Manager Joe Beavan the Fire Officer Designation.

The Fire Officer (FO) Designation shows that Beavan has demonstrated through his education, leadership, and management skills that he possesses the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the fire and emergency services profession. Beavan’s official designation was witnessed by a team of his peers and members of the CPC.

“Completing the credentialing process forced me to look at everything I have done throughout my career with a focus on the most recent five years. The process helped me identify areas I was very strong in, as well as areas where I needed to focus more attention. I discovered there were areas in my career development I probably spent too much time on when I should have been focusing on other areas to become more rounded,” said Beavan about his experience in the process. “The Peer Reviewer who worked with me confirmed this and gave me additional ideas to consider to broaden my abilities.”

The credentialing process is recommended for AFD’s sworn employees who are interested in promotion in the future. Beavan also recommends it for those interested in becoming a more well-rounded firefighter/EMT.

“Joe has demonstrated leadership in his new role as Accreditation Manager and obtaining his Fire Officer Designation is just one example,” said Fire/EMS Chief Corey Smedley. “He is raising the expectations for professional development in the Alexandria Fire Department by being a consistent fire service professional.”

Beavan joined the Department in September 1992. In his more than 29 years with AFD, he has maintained a balance of technical and administrative skills. He completed coursework in fire science at the University of Maryland University College and received a Certificate in Advanced Technical Writing from George Mason University in 2021. Beavan has served as the Department’s accreditation manager since November 2020.

For media inquiries only, contact Senior Public Information Officer Raytevia Evans at raytevia.evans@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.5190.

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This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/go/3560.