My name is Don Mieger

Currently, the Fire Chief of the Carriere Fire Department, in which he has been a member for over 20 years. A nationally registered paramedic for nearly 30 years, a certified diver, swift water rescue technician (originally trained by Jim Segerstrom, who is considered the founding father of organized swiftwater/flood rescue training), rescue boat operator, and EMS instructor are just a few of his accomplishments. Over the years has worked in EMS not only as a paramedic but as a supervisor and manager, also worked offshore in the health and safety division as a medic while ensuring all OSHA regulations were being followed. In addition, has been an EMS instructor for Pearl River Community College and Nunez College. 

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As a leader, has deployed to several water-related incidents as part of a swift water rescue team and rescue boat operator. Assisted in developing the first water rescue team within Pearl River County to mitigate continued flooding incidents. These deployments have enabled improvements in techniques in both the implementation of skills and teaching methods. Being able to incorporate knowledge, training, and real-world experience raises the training bar to higher levels.

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Understanding that real-world learning is only a portion of the knowledge needed, has worked hard to gain an AA in Criminal Justice, then a BA in Emergency & Disaster Management, and is now working on a Master's in EMS. Putting real-world experience with higher education ensures positive impacts on training by keeping the training bar higher than minimal standards.