We are pleased to announce the promotion of Jason Herman to Deputy Chief of Community Risk Reduction. Herman is a dedicated leader whose nearly three decades of service and unwavering commitment have made a lasting impact on our department and the community we serve.

Deputy Chief Herman began his fire service career in 1996 as a resident firefighter, then joined the Auburn Fire Department in 1998. He was promoted to Captain in 2014 and Battalion Chief in 2022. Over the past 28 years, he has served in a variety of operational and leadership roles, including Training Division Captain, Recruit Academy Lead Instructor, Training Division Battalion Chief, and Recruit Academy Coordinator.

Before entering the fire service, Herman served in the United States Marine Corps. The discipline, teamwork, accountability, and deep commitment to service learned in the Marines became the foundation for his approach to leadership, shaping his career and influencing those around him.

His time serving with the South King County Fire Training Consortium broadened his perspective beyond a single agency. This experience strengthened regional partnerships, deepened his leadership skills, and reinforced the importance of collaboration, preparing him for the Deputy Chief role.

As he steps into this new chapter, Herman’s top priorities include strengthening relationships across every division of the VRFA, identifying and addressing organizational barriers, and working collaboratively to develop both immediate and long-term solutions. His leadership philosophy centers on integrity, humility, and optimism. He is committed to fostering an environment built on trust, accountability, collaboration, and mutual respect. With a passion for continuous learning and growth, Deputy Chief Herman looks forward to helping others succeed and to leaving the organization stronger, more connected, and better prepared for the future.

Beyond his professional life, he enjoys building and wheeling Jeeps, exploring Washington’s backcountry, hiking, and spending time outdoors. In 2025, he co-founded Veterans Campfire and Off-Road Therapy, a nonprofit supporting military veterans, first responders, and nurses through outdoor recreation and peer connection.

Herman says helping others remains the most rewarding part of his career. Whether serving community members or supporting fellow firefighters, he believes trust is built through honest communication, genuine relationships, and teamwork. No one accomplishes meaningful work alone, and he is grateful for the lasting partnerships built across many agencies and disciplines.

We congratulate Deputy Chief Herman on his new role and look forward to the continued positive impact of his leadership on the VRFA and the community.