The Delaware State Fire Commission is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew M. Dodds as the next Director of the Delaware State Fire School.

Mr. Dodds brings more than two decades of distinguished leadership in fire and emergency medical services, emergency management, public safety, and executive-level program administration. His extensive background includes service in local, state, and federal government, where he has successfully led complex organizations, managed large-scale operations, developed national policies, and strengthened emergency response capabilities.

Most recently, Mr. Dodds has served as a Paramedic with Sussex County Emergency Medical Services while also providing consulting services on national security, emergency management, and border operations. Prior to relocating to Delaware, he retired from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection after an accomplished federal career, serving in executive leadership positions including Chief CBP Officer and Branch Chief of Operations. During his federal service, he directed national operations, managed multimillion-dollar programs and contracts, coordinated emergency response efforts across the country, and led initiatives supporting homeland security and public safety.

His fire and EMS experience is equally impressive. Mr. Dodds has served as a firefighter, emergency medical technician, advanced EMT, paramedic, EMS officer, instructor, and chief officer throughout his career. His service includes volunteer and career assignments in New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware, where he currently serves the citizens of Sussex County.

Commission Chairperson, Ron Marvel, welcomes Mr. Dodds to the agency.

“The Delaware State Fire Commission is proud to welcome Matthew Dodds as the next Director of the Delaware State Fire School. His exceptional leadership experience, commitment to public service, and proven ability to build organizations and lead through change make him uniquely qualified to guide the Fire School into its next chapter. We are confident his vision, integrity, and dedication to excellence will strengthen firefighter and EMS education throughout Delaware.”

Mr. Dodds is a Nationally Registered Paramedic, IBSC Board Certified Tactical Paramedic, Pro Board Firefighter I/II, Driver/Pump Operator, Hazardous Materials Operations Technician, and National Cadre Instructor. He also holds numerous instructor certifications in tactical emergency medicine, active shooter response, firearms instruction, and emergency vehicle operations. He is currently completing a Bachelor of Science degree in Emergency Medical Care – Paramedic Administration through Eastern Kentucky University.

Throughout his career, Mr. Dodds has been recognized for exceptional leadership and lifesaving actions, receiving numerous awards including the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Commendation, the CBP Commissioner’s Award, the Firefighter Valor Medal, the EMS Medal of Valor, and multiple lifesaving awards recognizing extraordinary service under emergency conditions.

As Director, Mr. Dodds will lead the Delaware State Fire School’s statewide mission of delivering high-quality education and training to Delaware’s fire, rescue, and emergency medical services community. Working in partnership with the Delaware State Fire Commission, local fire departments, EMS agencies, instructors, and stakeholders, he will focus on advancing training excellence, strengthening instructor development, enhancing firefighter safety, embracing innovation, and ensuring the Fire School continues to meet the evolving needs of Delaware’s emergency services professionals.

The Delaware State Fire Commission recognizes that the Fire School is entering a new era of leadership and is committed to supporting Mr. Dodds as he implements a vision centered on professionalism, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Together, the Commission and Fire School leadership will work to build upon the organization’s proud history while preparing the next generation of Delaware’s fire and EMS professionals through modern, high-quality training programs.

The Delaware State Fire Commission welcomes Director Dodds and looks forward to the leadership, experience, and vision he brings as the Delaware State Fire School continues its mission of preparing and supporting the emergency responders who protect the citizens of Delaware.

Print