Andrew Bartnikowski has officially completed FEMA's Independent Study Course IS-800.d: National Response Framework, An Introduction.

COLUMBUS, OH / ACCESS Newswire / September 18, 2025 / Andrew Bartnikowski, a decorated firefighter, lead paramedic, and nonprofit founder with more than two decades of service in both public and private sectors, has officially completed FEMA's Independent Study Course IS-800.d: National Response Framework, An Introduction. This certification, awarded through the National Disaster and Emergency University, recognizes Bartnikowski's ongoing commitment to preparedness, professional development, and service in times of national crisis.

The certification signifies more than the completion of a course. It represents Bartnikowski's determination to continually expand his expertise and reinforce his ability to lead when communities need it most. In an era where disaster readiness is more critical than ever, his achievement is a demonstration of both personal discipline and professional foresight.

A Lifelong Commitment to Service

Since 2012, Bartnikowski has served with the City of Columbus Division of Fire as a firefighter and lead paramedic, responding to more than 10,000 emergency calls. His work on the front lines of crisis has been marked by decisive leadership, sharp situational awareness, and an unwavering dedication to patient care.

From responding to complex fireground incidents to stabilizing critically injured patients, Bartnikowski's reputation has been built on his ability to remain calm under pressure while leading others with clarity and compassion. Before joining Columbus, he gained hands-on experience with the Worthington Division of Fire in Ohio and Bluffton Township Fire District in South Carolina, strengthening his perspective through varied community needs and operational environments.

Beyond the Call: Training and Mentorship

Bartnikowski's service does not end when the sirens quiet. As a proven trainer and mentor, he has educated the next generation of first responders, shaping the culture of safety and excellence within the fire service.

From 2018 to 2022, he served as a firefighter instructor at Delaware Career Center, where he designed and delivered training programs for recruits and in-service personnel. His teaching responsibilities included live fire training exercises, instruction in emergency response tactics, and preparation of students for rigorous state certification exams.

By combining technical expertise with an empathetic leadership style, Bartnikowski has ensured that his students not only mastered the mechanics of firefighting but also internalized the values of teamwork, integrity, and resilience, qualities essential to success in the field.

Leadership Beyond the Fireground

Bartnikowski's leadership extends well beyond emergency response. He has served as a union steward, a member of negotiation committees, and a representative in administrative investigations. In these capacities, he helped shape a landmark $300 million labor contract and developed safety protocols that continue to protect firefighters across Columbus. His ability to navigate complex negotiations and advocate for his peers underscores his capacity to lead not only in the heat of crisis but also in the intricate dynamics of organizational and labor relations.

Building Support for First Responders

His service to his community took on an even broader impact when he founded the Class 12/10/12 Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families of injured or fallen firefighters and addressing the often overlooked issue of first responder suicide. Through his leadership, the foundation has raised over $150,000 to provide essential resources, awareness campaigns, and direct family assistance.

For Bartnikowski, this work is deeply personal. It reflects his understanding that the challenges of public safety extend beyond the fire station, reaching into the mental health and well-being of those who dedicate their lives to service.

A Diverse Career Foundation

While his identity today is firmly rooted in emergency management and public service, Bartnikowski's career began in the private sector, where he gained experience in mortgage planning, construction project management, and skilled trades. This foundation gave him a broader understanding of organizational systems, financial strategy, and operational planning, skills that continue to inform his approach to leadership within the fire service.

Expanding Expertise Through FEMA

The recent FEMA certification in the National Response Framework (NRF) reflects Bartnikowski's ongoing dedication to aligning his personal training with national standards. The NRF is a guide for how the nation responds to all types of disasters and emergencies. It emphasizes scalable, flexible, and adaptable coordination structures that are crucial for effective crisis response at local, state, and federal levels.

By completing the IS-800.d course, Bartnikowski has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that his actions and leadership integrate seamlessly into national level frameworks, enabling better coordination during large scale incidents. For the communities he serves, this means an added assurance that their firefighter and paramedic is equipped not just with tactical expertise, but also with a strategic understanding of national disaster readiness.

"Service is more than showing up to a call. It is about being prepared to serve in every possible capacity, from the street level to the national response level," Bartnikowski said. "This certification is another step in making sure I can bring the best possible leadership and care when it matters most."

Education and Affiliations

Bartnikowski holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Resource Management from The Ohio State University. He is certified in Paramedicine, Fire Instruction, HAZMAT, Rope Rescue, and numerous specialized emergency response disciplines.

He is also an active member of the International Association of Fire Fighters, the Ohio Association of Professional Fire Fighters, and the Ohio State University Alumni Association.

Looking Ahead

With this new certification, Bartnikowski plans to continue integrating advanced emergency management principles into his work, sharing knowledge with recruits, peers, and community stakeholders. His broader vision is to strengthen the resilience of the communities he serves, ensuring that preparedness and response efforts meet the highest possible standards.

From the fireground to the classroom, from the union hall to nonprofit boardrooms, Bartnikowski's career reflects a rare blend of hands-on experience, strategic leadership, and heartfelt compassion. His FEMA certification is the latest chapter in a story defined not by personal accolades but by a steady, lifelong commitment to service.

About Andrew Bartnikowski

Andrew Bartnikowski is a firefighter, lead paramedic, instructor, and nonprofit founder with over 20 years of combined public and private sector experience in emergency management, training, financial planning, and program leadership. Serving with the City of Columbus Division of Fire since 2012, he has responded to more than 10,000 emergency calls and has earned recognition for decisive leadership and patient care under pressure. Bartnikowski is the founder of the Class 12/10/12 Foundation, a nonprofit supporting the families of injured or fallen firefighters and addressing first responder suicide. He holds a BS in Resource Management from The Ohio State University and maintains certifications in Paramedicine, Fire Instruction, and multiple specialized rescue disciplines.

Media Contact:

Andrew Bartnikowski
Experienced Leader & Team Player
614.209.0718
andrewbartnikowski@gmail.com
https://andrew_bartnikowski.com

SOURCE: Andrew Bartnikowski