Deputy Chief Mark Cristaldi Jr. began his career at St. Lucie County Fire District in 2002. His education includes an Associate of Arts Degree in Emergency Medical Services from Indian River State College, a bachelor’s degree in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University, and a master’s degree in Occupational Leadership from Columbia Southern University. He has served on several fire district committees, including the EMS Guidelines Committee, EMS Operations Committee, Strategic Planning Committee, and Medical Review Board Committee.
As deputy chief, Chief Cristaldi oversees several divisions, including Logistics, Fleet Maintenance, Human Resources, and Payroll. He is also responsible for creating and submitting grant applications in addition to managing awarded grants and grant reporting. Chief Cristaldi's position is responsible for policy and procedure development/revisions, development of comprehensive training programs and curriculum in accordance with legal requirements, data analysis, professional development and leadership, strategic planning, budget planning and management, and providing assistance to other administrative functions.
He has served on the Safety Committee, Strategic Planning Committee, Medical Review Board, Communications Committee, EMS/Ops Committee, and EMS Guidelines Committee.