Jason White’s experience as chief of the Pittsfield Fire Department has been both rewarding and humbling.
“When called upon to do our jobs, we unfortunately get to encounter people during some of their worst times,” White told West Central Reporter. “It is a humbling feeling when the outcome is good, when we preserve life or save property.”
White became Pittsfield Fire Chief in May 2010. He chose to work in the field for a very personal reason.
Pittsfield Fire Chief Jason White
“I lost someone very dear to me in a car accident when I was young,” White said. “It motivated me to join and get involved so that other families would not have to feel that pain of loss. Being part of a team that saves lives is a great feeling.”
Among White’s goals as Fire Chief are to continue to grow the department with new equipment and training methods, continuing to promote professionalism and remaining integrated in the community. Part of Pittsfield Fire’s community involvement has included visiting schools annually to provide education on fire prevention.
“My favorite thing about the job is helping the community, visiting the schools, teaching youth about the fire service, and enjoying the comradery of the firehouse,” White said. “I have been very fortunate to serve with great men and women on a fire department driven by tradition and honor.”
White is a volunteer firefighter, Little League and USA Softball coach and assistant coach for the Pittsfield High School softball program. He is also involved with the 911 Safety Board. He was born and raised in Pittsfield, graduated from Pittsfield High School and obtained a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Illinois College in Jacksonville. He is a State of Illinois Certified Firefighter II and State of Illinois Certified Fire Instructor I.
When he’s not serving the community, White enjoys traveling, playing golf, working on cars and going to the lake.
“I’m pretty content hanging with my family and friends,” he said. “I am pretty fortunate to have them in my life.”
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