The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC), the statewide association representing career and volunteer fire chiefs throughout New York has appointed Gerald R. "Jerry" DeLuca as its new executive director and CEO.
DeLuca has an extensive history of public and emergency service as well as being a highly qualified association manager. He has previously worked as executive director of the Automotive Recyclers Association of New York and as the director of government affairs for the New York State Motor Truck Association.
DeLuca has a long history with the fire service. He currently is a deputy county fire coordinator in Albany County and was previously first assistant chief of the Ravena Fire Department. DeLuca also served as a part-time police investigator and public information officer for the Town of Coeymans Police Department.
In commenting on the selection of Jerry DeLuca as the NYSAFC executive director and CEO, association 1st Vice President Donald Corkery said, "We are extremely pleased to have Jerry DeLuca joining our team. His experience in managing associations and his knowledge of the fire service as well as state government make him the right person for this job. We have many issues to address including working with our colleagues in the fire service to ensure that the lives of New Yorkers are protected by adopting the new building code."
DeLuca said, "I am extremely honored and pleased to be given this opportunity. Taking on the leadership of the State Association of Fire Chiefs is a tremendous opportunity for me. It allows me to combine my ability to manage an association with my passion for fire and emergency services. I look forward to continuing to grow the association and to making certain that we continue to provide high quality service and training to fire chiefs throughout the state."
DeLuca is replacing Thomas LaBelle who has taken a position as division fire chief in Albemarle County, Va. DeLuca stated, "Tom LaBelle has been a tremendous asset to the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs and to the fire service in New York state. I am sure his skills and knowledge will be extremely beneficial to the people of Virginia."