Fire Chief Niles Ford has over sixteen years experience in the fire service, EMS and public safety. Through these years of professional experience he has been associated with several professional and volunteer organizations such as: Adamsville Fire and Rescue Service, Lakeview Fire Department, Green Pond Fire Department, North Star Paramedic Service, Bessemer Police Department, Bessemer Fire and Rescue, and Fulton County Fire Department. Chief Ford was also one of the developers of Lawson State Community College’s Emergency Medical Program and was the first instructor and program director.

In order to rapidly improve his knowledge, skills, and abilities, Chief Ford has obtained several professional certifications. Some of his many accomplishments include: Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic, Fire Officer I, II, and III, Fire Instructor I and II, Fire Investigator, Fire Inspector, and Hazardous Material Technician.

Chief Ford has spoken at forums on leadership development, change management, and team development. He holds an Associates of Fire Science from Lawson State Community College, a Bachelors of Science in Public Safety Administration from Athens State University, a Masters of Science in Management from Faulkner University, and he anticipates completing a PhD in Organization and Management with emphasis on Human Resources from Capella University.