AVON PARK, FL, June 15, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- James Thomas Simpson has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Simpson has established a distinguished career in public safety and fire service, marked by a steadfast commitment to servant leadership and continuous personal growth. Since 2023, he has served as deputy fire chief for the Hardee County Board of County Commissioners, overseeing and managing department personnel and apparatus stations. In this capacity, Mr. Simpson ensures that all assigned duties are completed efficiently throughout the day, prescribes training programs and manages both the records management system and learner management system for record retention. He is responsible for prescribing or teaching internal courses in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, advanced cardiovascular life support, and pediatric advanced life support, as well as staff development.

Additionally, Mr. Simpson has contributed to the academic development of future professionals as an adjunct instructor at South Florida State College since 2013. In this role, he imparts practical knowledge and leadership skills to students pursuing careers in emergency services.

From 2020 to 2023, Mr. Simpson held the position of captain in the fire prevention division with Hardee County Fire Rescue. His responsibilities included leading fire prevention initiatives and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Prior to this, he served as a lieutenant from 2016 to 2020, supervising emergency response teams and coordinating operational activities during critical incidents.

Mr. Simpson's earlier experience includes serving as a paramedic and firefighter with Hardee County Fire Rescue from 2007 to 2016. During this period, he responded to emergencies, provided advanced medical care and played a vital role in community outreach programs. He also worked as a firefighter for Sun N Lake Improvement District from 2011 to 2013, further broadening his expertise in fire suppression and rescue operations.

Between 2009 and 2011, Mr. Simpson was a paramedic with emergency medical services for Highlands County, State of Florida, delivering pre-hospital care and supporting disaster response efforts. His career began in 2003 as a firefighter and emergency medical technician with Highlands County Fire Rescue and then Hardee County Fire Rescue, where he developed foundational skills in emergency response.

Throughout his professional journey, Mr. Simpson has been recognized for his dedication to public service. He was honored during Emergency Medical Services Week by Hardee County Fire Rescue and is most proud of his ongoing service to the community, which began as a volunteer in Highlands County in 2000, a role he considers a great achievement affording him the career he has to date. His professional affiliations include membership in the Florida Fire Chiefs' Association and the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association.

Mr. Simpson's educational background has been instrumental in shaping his career trajectory. He earned a bachelor's degree in fire science administration from Waldorf University in 2018, which provided him with advanced knowledge of fire service management and organizational leadership. In 2015, he completed an Associate of Applied Science degree in fire science firefighting at South Florida State College, equipping him with the technical expertise essential for field operations. He also holds an associate degree in emergency medical services from South Florida State College, awarded in 2008.

His commitment to professional development is further demonstrated by certifications, including the Fire Instructor III, Fire Inspector II, and Fire Officer IV series from the State of Florida, as well as various professional certificates in emergency management field. Mr. Simpson attributes his success to a dedication to continuous learning even when faced with adversity.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Mr. Simpson was civically engaged as a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity International and Paint Wauchula yet still dedicates time to Send Me Missions reflecting his enduring commitment to community betterment. His contributions have been recognized with several awards: the County Employee of the Year Award from Hardee County in 2012 and the Chief's Award from Highlands County.

Born in Plantation, Mr. Simpson values time spent with his family and enjoys outdoor activities. He is the parent of three children. Looking ahead, he aims to earn a master's degree in emergency management. He intends to continue advancing within the fields of fire service or emergency management while upholding his principles of servant leadership and personal growth.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. The suite of Marquis® publications, including Who's Who in America® and Who's Who in the World®, remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the globe. Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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