Frederick County has tapped a seasoned public safety leader to guide its volunteer fire and rescue services, a critical role as counties continue to navigate recruitment, retention, and operational demands.
The County Council confirmed the appointment of Jason Blake as Director of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services on March 17, 2026.
From the county press release:
“Jason Blake’s extensive background in fire and rescue services demonstrates his expertise in the field and his commitment to serving others,” said County Executive Jessica Fitzwater. “He is an accomplished leader whose experience and vision will make a real difference for Frederick County’s Volunteer Fire and Rescue teams.”
Blake brings more than 25 years of experience in fire and rescue, including frontline service as a firefighter and paramedic. His background spans emergency response, training development, and workforce strategy, areas that remain top priorities for counties statewide.
Most recently, Blake served as Battalion Chief of Field Operations for Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services, where he oversaw eight stations and nearly 90 personnel. His experience managing large teams and complex operations positions him to step into a leadership role that is both operational and strategic.
For many counties, volunteer fire and rescue services are the backbone of emergency response, but sustaining that model is becoming increasingly challenging.
Departments across Maryland continue to face:
- Recruitment and retention pressures
- Increasing call volumes
- Growing training and certification demands
Leadership at the director level plays a key role in navigating these challenges, balancing day-to-day operations with long-term workforce development and system sustainability.
Blake’s experience in both operations and workforce strategy signals a continued emphasis on building and maintaining a strong, responsive fire and rescue system.
