COLUMBUS, OH, November 06, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Columbus State Community College, Fire Science Technology Division, proudly certifies that Andrew Bartnikowski has successfully completed 40 hours of Continuing Education covering "HazMat Technician" training, conducted from March 26–30, 2012, at the Delaware Fire Department. This milestone represents another chapter in Bartnikowski's distinguished career dedicated to public safety, operational excellence, and the advancement of emergency response training.

A seasoned professional with more than two decades of experience across public and private sectors, Bartnikowski has become a respected figure in emergency management and leadership. His expertise spans emergency response, financial planning, program management, and professional training, bringing a rare combination of tactical knowledge, organizational insight, and strategic foresight to every role he undertakes.

From the Front Lines to Leadership
Since joining the City of Columbus Division of Fire in 2012, Bartnikowski has demonstrated exceptional commitment to public safety and operational integrity. Prior to that, he served with the City of Worthington, Ohio, and Bluffton Township, South Carolina, where he developed a reputation for rapid assessment, decisive action, and effective team coordination during critical incidents.

Over the course of his career, he has responded to more than 10,000 emergency calls, earning the trust of both colleagues and community members. His hands-on leadership and calm presence under pressure have made him a role model for younger firefighters and paramedics entering the field.

As a Lead Paramedic, instructor, and mentor, Bartnikowski has gone beyond duty to foster the next generation of emergency service professionals. He has organized and led live fire training sessions, coordinated multi-agency preparedness drills, and implemented process improvements that have strengthened operational efficiency, including initiatives that reduced patient care report times by 20%, enhancing both accountability and patient outcomes.

Commitment to Service Beyond the Station
Bartnikowski's impact extends far beyond firehouse walls. His leadership within organized labor and policy advocacy has positioned him as a trusted voice on workforce development and safety reform. As a union steward and lead negotiator, he played a central role in securing a $300 million labor contract that balanced the interests of first responders and city management, ensuring fair compensation, improved benefits, and enhanced safety measures for fire personnel.

His contributions to policy development have influenced decisions on EMS operations, safety initiatives, and departmental best practices, underscoring his commitment to both the wellbeing of his peers and the integrity of public service systems.

Building a Legacy Through Compassion: The Class 12/10/12 Foundation
In 2012, driven by compassion and a deep sense of community, Bartnikowski founded the Class 12/10/12 Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization devoted to supporting firefighter families affected by injury, line-of-duty death, or suicide. Under his leadership, the foundation has raised over $150,000 to provide financial assistance, counseling resources, and memorial support for those in need.

"The Foundation was born out of a simple truth, that no firefighter's family should ever feel alone in their darkest hour," says Bartnikowski. "Every dollar raised, every life touched, reminds us that service doesn't end when the sirens go silent."

His ability to merge professional expertise with personal empathy has made the Foundation a trusted partner within the firefighting community and beyond.

A Career Rooted in Excellence and Education
Andrew Bartnikowski's formal education and ongoing certifications reflect his lifelong commitment to learning and safety innovation. A proud graduate of The Ohio State University, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Resource Management, equipping him with a strong analytical and organizational foundation. His qualifications include advanced certifications as a Paramedic, Fire Instructor, Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Technician, and Rope Rescue Specialist.

The completion of the HazMat Technician training at Columbus State Community College in partnership with the Delaware Fire Department underscores his continued dedication to mastering complex emergency scenarios. The 40-hour program provided comprehensive instruction in hazard recognition, decontamination procedures, chemical identification, and advanced response techniques, skills that have since informed his leadership in hazardous materials response within the Columbus Division of Fire.

Leadership Across Industries
Before entering full-time public service, Bartnikowski cultivated professional experience in skilled trades and financial services, experiences that continue to inform his pragmatic and detail-oriented leadership style. His unique understanding of both operational systems and economic realities allows him to identify innovative solutions under pressure, balancing efficiency, safety, and fiscal responsibility.

His diverse background across industries makes him not only a responder but also a strategist, someone capable of bridging the gap between front-line challenges and organizational decision-making.

Professional Memberships and Affiliations
Bartnikowski remains actively engaged in several professional organizations, including the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the Ohio Association of Professional Fire Fighters (OAPFF), and the Ohio State University Alumni Association. Through these memberships, he continues to advocate for leadership excellence, community safety, and the development of policies that protect both firefighters and civilians.

He frequently contributes to training forums, peer mentorship initiatives, and safety committees, reinforcing his belief that the strength of the fire service lies in its unity, discipline, and shared commitment to continuous growth.

Looking Ahead: Service, Leadership, and Lasting Impact
As the fire service continues to evolve amid technological innovation and shifting community needs, Bartnikowski's approach reflects a balance of tradition and transformation. His record demonstrates that effective leadership is not just about command, it is about compassion, education, and empowerment.

His completion of the HazMat Technician certification exemplifies his belief in proactive preparedness. Whether responding to hazardous spills, training the next generation, or negotiating policies that strengthen the fire service, Bartnikowski embodies the principle that excellence in emergency response begins with a commitment to lifelong learning.

"Training never stops," he reflects. "Every course, every call, every challenge adds another layer to who we are as firefighters and as people. It's about staying ready, for our teams, for our communities, and for the moments that test everything we stand for."

About Andrew Bartnikowski
Andrew Bartnikowski is a Columbus, Ohio–based firefighter, paramedic, and instructor with over 20 years of multidisciplinary experience in emergency response, leadership, and organizational development. He serves with the City of Columbus Division of Fire, where he has led training initiatives, process improvements, and community engagement programs. Founder of the Class 12/10/12 Foundation, Bartnikowski remains dedicated to advancing the safety, resilience, and wellbeing of firefighters and their families nationwide.

For interviews, speaking engagements, or collaboration inquiries, contact:
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://andrewbartnikowski.com

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