Lester Rich

Experience

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  Watauga County

  Jan 1986 - Jan 1987

  Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Coordinator

  As a fire marshal I was responsible for fire investigation, code enforcement and training. As Emergency Management Coordinator I was responsible for all emergency management functions within the county and was a member of the statewide emergency response team.

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  Charlotte Fire Department

  Jan 1987 - Jan 1989

  Fire Investigator

  Fire and Explosives Investigation

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  ATF

  Jan 1989 - Jan 2005

  Special Agent/Certified Fire Investigator

  I was responsible for conducting fire investigations and developing criminal cases involving violations of the federal arson and explosives laws. Served as a member of the National Response Team for 10 years, an Explosives Specialist, HazMat Technician and Certified Fire Investigator. Developed the "First Responder to Explosives Incidents" training program for state and local first responders. Additional duties during my time with ATF included, Co-Coordinatior of the US Attorney's Violent Crime Task Force, Task Force Liaison with the Port Security Project, "Project SeaHawk". Show less

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  Forensic Fire Analysis, LLC

  Oct 2005 - Aug 2015

  Fire Analyst/Investigator -

  Provided thorough and professional fire analysis, consulting and investigation.

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  FEMA, US Fire Administration, National Fire Academy

  Aug 2015 - Sept 2020

  Training Specialist, Curriculum Manager, Fire Investigator

  Manage and Instruct in the Fire and Investigative Sciences Program.

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  FEMA

  Jan 2017 - May 2024

  Emergency Services Group Supervisor
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  U.S. Fire Administration

  Jan 2024 - now

  • Deputy Superintendent

    Jul 2022 - now

  • Deputy Chief, National Resource Coordination Center

    Jan 2024 - now