Bedford County Names Jason Ferguson as New Fire & Rescue Chief

BEDFORD COUNTY, Va. — Bedford County has appointed veteran fire and emergency services leader Jason Ferguson as the new chief of the Department of Fire & Rescue. Ferguson will assume the role on Aug. 17.

Ferguson joins Bedford County from neighboring Botetourt County, where he has served as chief of the Department of Fire & EMS since 2018. His public safety career began in 2000 as an emergency department technician-paramedic with Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital before joining the Botetourt County Department of Fire & EMS as a paramedic in 2001.

During his career in Botetourt County, Ferguson advanced through a series of leadership positions, including fire and EMS training coordinator, captain, division chief, battalion chief and deputy chief before being named department chief.

In addition to his leadership experience, Ferguson served as a paramedic transport specialist with Carilion Clinic Patient Transportation's critical care flight team from 2015 to 2021 and worked as an adjunct instructor for the Virginia Department of Fire Programs for a decade.

Ferguson earned a bachelor's degree in emergency services and an associate degree in emergency health sciences from Jefferson College of Health Sciences. He is also a graduate of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program and Virginia Tech's Local Government Management Program.

"I am extremely excited and humbled to have the opportunity to work alongside the dedicated men and women of Bedford County Department of Fire & Rescue," Ferguson said. "I look forward to collaborating with community stakeholders for the continued betterment of essential services throughout Bedford County."

County Administrator Robert Hiss said Ferguson brings a strong reputation for leadership and a deep understanding of fire and EMS operations.

"Jason has an outstanding reputation as an effective chief with substantial understanding and knowledge of fire and EMS systems," Hiss said. "As our public safety system continues to evolve, his leadership in a combination career and volunteer system will prove beneficial for Bedford County. Jason's experience and skills will be critical in advancing organizational goals, enhancing service delivery and supporting the department's long-term vision."