Valley Division Chief Terry Welsh started his fire service career in 1972 as a Volunteer Firefighter with the Barstow Fire District, while he worked as an electrician apprentice for the AT&SF Railroad. He then served as a full-time civilian firefighter at the Barstow Marine Corps Logistics Base before joining the Lake Arrowhead Fire District in 1976.

Welsh advanced through the ranks as the Lake Arrowhead District was incorporated into County Fire and was promoted to Captain in 1985 after earning a state Company Officer certification. He earned an AS degree in 1986 at Crafton Hills College and a state Chief Officer certification in 2001. Throughout the 1980s, in addition to his duties as a professional firefighter, Welsh also taught R.O.P. fire science classes to high school students

He was assigned to the Training Division in 2002, where he taught numerous subjects and served as the Operations Officer for the Crafton Hills College Fire Academy. He was promoted to Battalion Chief in 2004, and served in the North Desert Division. Welsh served on many committees over the years and is responsible for coordinating new fire station construction for the department.

Welsh was also active in labor leadership for over 20 years, serving on the executive board of the International Association of Firefighters Local 935 and as the Local President for three years.

Welsh lives in Hesperia with his wife, Karen. He has two grown children and two grandchildren. Welsh enjoys trout fishing, golf and taking RV trips with his wife.


Updated February 6, 2008