Rachel Ford Named Deputy Chief in Historic Promotion at New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control

The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) has announced that Rachel Ford has been promoted to Fire Protection Specialist 2, effective February 13, 2025. With this promotion, Ford will oversee operations at the Buffalo office of the Fire Training and Education Branch as Deputy Chief, becoming the first woman to hold this leadership role within the OFPC.

Ford brings 16 years of experience with the Office of Fire Prevention and Control, having served as both a Fire Protection Specialist 1 and a Regional State Fire Instructor. She holds an associate degree in Liberal Arts from Monroe County Community College and a bachelor’s degree in Fire and Safety Engineering Technology from Eastern Kentucky University. Additionally, she completed the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy.

Her extensive background in fire prevention and training, coupled with her dedication to public safety, positions her well to lead the Buffalo office’s ongoing efforts in fire training and education.

Ford’s promotion is seen as a significant milestone for the OFPC, highlighting the continued advancement of women in fire service leadership roles across the state.