Cody Thetford Named New Fire Chief
RUIDOSO, NM – June 27, 2017 – The Village of Ruidoso has selected Cody Thetford as its new Fire Chief effective June 25, 2017. Mayor Tom Battin will be announcing Thetford’s appointment as Fire Chief during the regular Village Council meeting on Tuesday, July 11, 2017. The Village conducted an assessment process on June 22, 2017, which included six qualified candidates. At the completion of the process, Thetford finished as the top scoring candidate.
“I have no doubt that we have picked the right person to lead this department,” said Mayor Battin. “Cody’s qualifications coupled with his long history with the Ruidoso Fire Department make him the ideal fit for this position. He has a great ability to foster effective working relationships within Village departments, as well as out in the community with other local organizations through strategic partnerships.”
Thetford most recently served as the Interim Fire Chief and has worked for the Village of Ruidoso for 14 years. He started his fire service career in 2002 when he began working as a Volunteer Firefighter for the Ruidoso Fire Department. Since then, he has advanced through the ranks to the position of Captain. He has 2000 hours of Fire and EMS Leadership and Emergency Management Training certificates and has completed the pre-requisites for the Paramedic Program. In addition, he has completed EMT Intermediate Training, along with HazMat training and the Emergency Management Professional Management Series. Thetford is also experienced in the FEMA 7-800 certifications and is a CPR and AED/First Aid Instructor. Finally, he has completed the Wildland Fire Certification 100-400 series training.
“Overall, Chief Thetford brings a very strong fire service background to this role, which is supported by his sense of community,” said Village Manager Debi Lee. “In my opinion, that combination is invaluable. His commitment and dedication not only to his department but to our Village will make him a great fire chief.”
According to Thetford: “I am honored to have this opportunity to lead this amazing group of firefighters, and I look forward to the challenge. This is my home – it’s where I am raising my family, and my commitment to this community is steadfast.”
Cody’s wife Vanessa is employed by Lincoln County Medical Center, and their two sons, Jensen and Tysen are students in the Ruidoso Schools.
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