Chief Blood began his fire service career in 2012 as a resident intern with Black Butte Fire RFPD. He went on to serve with Warm Springs Fire and Safety and Jefferson County EMS (JCEMS). At JCEMS, Chief Blood held the roles of Lieutenant and Training Officer. In 2017, he joined Umatilla County Fire District #1 and has since risen through the ranks. Chief Blood also served as Union President for the Hermiston Professional Firefighters.

He holds three associate degrees from Central Oregon Community College and a bachelor’s degree in Fire Service Administration from Eastern Oregon University. Chief Blood has also earned numerous certifications, including Fire Officer III and Instructor III. In his current role, he oversees department-wide training to ensure all personnel meet UCFD #1’s ever-increasing standards. He also leads Probationary and Apparatus Operator academies, preparing recruits to meet the high expectations of the district.

Chief Blood believes leaders should lead by example, continually strive to master their craft, and support the growth of others through servant leadership—placing their success ahead of their own. Outside the fire service, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and camping with his wife and their three children.