Joe Ott III, September 2023

Why do you do what you do?
“I got involved in Emergency Services because I believe being there for people who are experiencing their worst day no matter what the emergency should be able to rely on their community members.”

What or who influenced you to get into public service?
“My Father is who influenced my decision in being a part of emergency services, I remember Being a kid and watching my dad run out the door to go help someone who was in need.

“When I joined the IFA I had no Immediate family connections. In 2021 my son, Joey joined IFA as a Junior FireFighter. However, I consider everyone at IFA extended family. My father, Joe continues his service to the Saltsburg Community for 40+ years of service. Also, my grandfather as well as my uncle served the Irwin Fire Department.”

What has developed recently in your public service career and what is the significance of it?
“As the years pass and the more training I take and the incidents I respond to; I often sit and reflect back to that little kid who carried a block of wood a with a piece of mining cable as antenna. Trying to imitate his dad and wanting to be a great firefighter, great officer in the fire service as well as an asset to his community.”

What part of this service has been the most gratifying?
“I would have to say just being a member of an organization in the community which people can depend on being there in their time of need. As well as watching my son develop into the fire service.”

What part of this service has been the hardest?
“Balancing home life, work and commitments needed within the fire service.”

What do you do to earn a living?
“My full time job, I work at Martin Diesel as a Mechanic as well as a Tow Truck Operator.”

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