Rock Island Fire Department promotes 3 firefighters

The Rock Island Fire Department is promoting more staff members. The department has promoted Captain Jon Briggs to the position of fire marshal; Lieutenant Brandon Baker to the rank of captain; and Firefighter Justin Welvaert to the rank of lieutenant as of Monday, July 22.

Briggs began his career with the Rock Island Fire Department in 2000. His dedication and service led to his promotion to lieutenant in 2008, and to captain in 2018. He was honored with the Firefighter of the Year award from the Knights of Columbus in 2009. Briggs specializes as a fire investigator and hazardous materials technician. He has been part of developing and leading the department’s drone program and improving operational capabilities. He earned a bachelor’s degree in fire administration from Columbia Southern University. “We are incredibly proud of Fire Marshal Briggs and his accomplishments,” said Fire Chief Bob Graff. “His expertise, leadership and dedication to the Rock Island community make him an outstanding choice for the role of fire marshal. We look forward to his continued contributions in this new capacity.”

Captain Brandon Baker joined the Rock Island Fire Department in 2007 and he was awarded Firefighter of the Year by the Knights of Columbus in 2016. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2019. Baker has worked on the Foreign Fire Tax Board for over 10 years. He has been a vital part of the research, testing and application of the department’s equipment, apparatus and operational policies to ensure the department is at the forefront of firefighting technology and practices. He is a State Fire Academy instructor with the Illinois Fire Service Institute and a technical rescue technician with the regional response team. “Lt. Baker’s promotion to captain is a testament to his hard work, dedication and leadership,” said Fire Chief Bob Graff. “He has been an instrumental part of our team, and we are confident he will continue to excel in his new role as captain.”

Justin Welvaert has been with the department since 2006. He is certified as a Firefighter III, Fire Instructor 1 and Fire Officer 1 and is a deployable member of the regional Hazardous Materials Team. He is working toward joining the department’s newly formed Drone Team. His dedication to the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s (MDA) Fill the Boot event has helped raise money and awareness. “Justin Welvaert’s promotion to Lieutenant is a testament to his hard work, dedication and leadership within our department,” said Fire Chief Bob Graff. “His expertise and commitment to our community make him an invaluable asset to the Rock Island Fire Department and we are confident he will continue to excel in his new role.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.