Frostburg, Maryland

 

Chief Barbara Knippenburg was initially appointed to the MFRETC in 2009.  After completing her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees at Frostburg State University, Ms. Knippenburg taught in the Allegany County School System for over 30 years.  She began volunteering in the emergency services in 1978, when she joined the newly formed Georges Creek Ambulance Service, serving as a medic and chief officer for many years. After the completion of her fire training, she became a member of Midland Fire Company, where she has served in numerous offices including Assistant Chief and Treasurer. Currently, she is EMS Chief and Training Officer. In 1990, she became an instructor with the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute, teaching Rescue, Fire Fighting, EMT, and Instructor Trainer classes. Active in the Allegany Garrett Counties Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association, Ms. Knippenburg is a past President and currently serves as Editor, producing the Association’s monthly newsletter. In the Maryland State Firemen’s Association (MSFA), she has served on several committees and has been honored with the Hall of Fame, Josiah Hunt Award, and Firefighter of the Year. Recently, she has been appointed to the Volunteer Company Assistance Fund as the representative for Allegany and Garrett Counties. She has served on the Maryland Instructor Certification Review Board since 1998, representing MSFA. Ms. Knippenburg represents volunteer emergency services instructors.