CAMDEN — The Camden Fire Department has a new employed firefighter: Clint Beveridge joined the department Sept. 18, filling an additional full-time firefighter position included in the town’s 2017-18 municipal budget.

Beveridge most recently was employed with Fisher Engineering in Rockland where he worked for 15 years in variety of positions, including his last role building prototypes from engineers’ designs. He said that he enjoyed working at Fisher and appreciated all of the opportunities he was given.

But, he was also feeling that it was time “to follow his heart.” That meant finding a position where he could serve the community.

Beveridge has served as a volunteer firefighter with the Rockport Fire Department for the past two years and completed Firefighter I and II training with the Knox County Fire Training Academy. One of the teachers of the course was Camden’s Assistant Fire Chief Andrew Lowe.

He is a native of Camden, attended Camden Rockport High School and Snow College in Ephraim, Utah. He also spent time doing a mission trip with his church on the Utah-Nevada-Colorado borders before he returned to Camden.

Beveridge comes from a family that has served their local community. His father, Steve, was the Public Works Director for the town of Rockport for over 25 years and is still assisting in the department.

He said that being a firefighter has its challenges.

“Buildings go up so much faster from the way they are built today, so the first few minutes are critical. Also, keeping enough active people, especially younger volunteers, in the department to respond quickly to fires is an ongoing challenge,” said Beveridge.

Camden Fire Chief Chris Farley said:  “We are looking forward to having Clint join the team at the fire department. His enthusiasm for the job, positive outlook, and local knowledge will be assets to the department and community."

Reach Sarah Shepherd at news@penbaypilot.com