Ryan O’ Hearn (MPA, 2010), Fire Chief, City of Pocatello
Ryan O’ Hearn (MPA, 2010), Fire Chief, City of Pocatello
A few years after finishing an undergraduate degree from ISU, I started working for the Pocatello Fire Department in 2002. The work at the fire department solidified my desire to remain in the public sector. I chose the MPA program at ISU in order to get a better understanding of State and Local Government. The program design allowed me to pursue my education while continuing to work. I started the program in 2005 and graduated in 2010, taking a year off in the interim. The entire program was a great experience. The professors were excellent and provided a great environment that facilitated in-depth discussion and learning. I developed relationships that continue today.
I am fortunate for the opportunity to serve the community as Pocatello’s Fire Chief. The position is responsible for operating the City’s fire department as well as the County’s Ambulance Service. In this capacity, I work with many other department heads and elected officials to accomplish our mission. The program at ISU definitely helped me prepare for this. I use the topics covered throughout the program on a daily basis. The courses that I look back on most often are Public Budgeting and Finance, Public Personnel Management, Public Policy Analysis, and Public Leadership; however, the entire curriculum was very beneficial. I would recommend the MPA program at ISU to anyone who wants to further their knowledge and career in the public or non-profit sectors. In addition to having an excellent educational experience, you will build relationships with professionals that will continue throughout your career.