Manheim Township's fire rescue program is headed in a new direction - a more professional one.

At the board of commissioners' public meeting on Jan. 9, Manheim Township Fire Rescue (MTFR) introduced its first-ever group of career fire lieutenants - Justin Gernert, Richard Flinn, Daniel Braden and Matthew Barnes. Subsequently, Gernert has been assigned to shift A at Engine 201, Southern Manheim Township station; Flinn has been assigned to shift B; Braden has been assigned to shift C; and Barnes has been assigned to shift D.

The promotion of the career fire lieutenants represents the culmination of a 10-year plan instituted by former Fire Chief Rick Kane, designed to move Manheim Township from an all-volunteer fire-rescue program to one better capable of serving the community on a 24/7 basis. The new career lieutenants' duties will include company-level supervision and the overseeing of day-to-day operations of the four in-service fire stations, including leading, guiding and directing fire rescue personnel.

"Over the last 20 years, we have seen the fire service take on a more professional role when speaking to certification, credentialing and higher educational standards," said current MTFR Chief Scott Little.

Little conducted an internal civil services promotional exam for the purpose of elevating staff to the rank of fire lieutenant. The successful candidates exhibited a combination of education, training and experience.

"Their work is just beginning as fire service leaders," said Little. "They will be empowered to lead, mentor and coach our talented workforce, and help us develop the future leaders of MTFR. This is a historical moment for Manheim Township, and I'm proud of the work everyone has done to see this day come to fruition."