For the City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – Wisconsin Rapids Battalion Chief Benjamin Goodreau has earned the professional designation of Chief Fire Officer (CFO) from the Commission of Professional Credentialing (CPC).

“Goodreau is one of only 1,554 CFOs worldwide and the first member of the City of Wisconsin Rapids Fire Department to earn the designation,” a city release stated.

“Since starting my career with the City of Wisconsin Rapids in 2006, I have had the opportunity to continue to educate myself, as well as travel across the state and nation to network with other public safety organizations. Our Fire Department has generated a positive culture, focused on professionalism and proficiency, to provide our community with the highest level of public service. It is the actions I witness daily in our emergency response and the display of utmost sincere compassion at every level, which sets us apart. Although being credentialed as a Chief Fire Officer has been a professional goal of mine, the recognition is reflective of the organization itself. I am grateful to the City, our department and elected officials, both past and present, for the opportunity and support that has made the CFO distinction possible,” said Goodreau.

According to the Center for Public Safety Excellence, the CFO designation program is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate their excellence in seven measured components: experience, education, professional development, professional contributions, association memberships, community involvement and technical competence.

“Ben is committed to professional development and has worked diligently to meet the necessary standards in order to gain Chief Fire Officer credentialing. We are proud of all of our officers at the Wisconsin Rapids Fire Department and this award demonstrates the department’s motto: Commitment to Excellence. Ben’s hard work and determination has been validated with this award,” Wisconsin Rapids Fire Chief Scott Young added.