The City of Clinton Fire Department has a new leader, one who has risen through the ranks over a decorated 26-year career at one of the largest fire departments in the country.
On Friday, the city announced Adon Snyder as its new fire chief. Snyder will be introduced to the members of the Clinton Fire Department and City Council at the Council’s next regular meeting, Tuesday, Aug. 7. He will officially begin his duties on Sept. 4.
Synder holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Science Administration from Waldorf College in Forest City, Iowa and is a certified Fire Officer IV, Instructor III, and hazardous materials technician. He has also completed course work at the National Fire Academy and Emergency Management Institute.
Snyder has been a member of Prince George’s County (Maryland) Fire/EMS Department since 1986, ascending from the rank of firefighter to assistant fire chief of Emergency Services Command, Fire and Rescue Operations. Prince George’s County Fire Department is one of the largest combination (career/volunteer) fire departments in the United States. Prior to Prince George’s County, Snyder served as a fire protection specialist in the United States Air Force.
“I am very impressed with Adon’s background and how well he did in the interview process. We put all the candidates through a strenuous assessment consisting of numerous exercises and Adon came out as the top candidate,” city manager John Connet said. “In addition, I spoke with volunteer firefighters in Prince George’s County, all of whom told me that Adon was one of the ‘go to guys’ in the county fire department. Adon also has received two silver stars of valor, one bronze star of valor and four unit citations for rescues.”
The city received 60 applications for the fire chief opening at the beginning of this year after former chief Todd Solice stepped down at the end of 2011 in favor of resuming his previous role as deputy fire chief.
The same extensive hiring process was followed this time around, as applicants were reviewed and a similar assessment center was conducted roughly a month ago for the top five applicants, weighing their attributes through interviews and various exercises. Since that time, the top candidates were whittled down further to a select number from which Snyder was chosen.
Snyder’s starting salary is $61,654.
“Adon is committed to developing a long-range vision for the department and helping our community to grow and prosper,” Connet said. “We’re excited to have him as our new fire chief.”
Chris Berendt can be reached at 910-592-8137 ext. 121 or via email at sicrime@heartlandpublications.com.
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