Thomas Cook, State Fire Commissioner
Thomas Cook has more than 36 years of experience in emergency services, and an extensive background in public and nonprofit administration — having served at the municipal, county, and state levels, with a primary focus on public safety and emergency management.
Most recently, Cook served as Assistant State Fire Commissioner. He was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Office of the State Fire Commissioner.
Prior to that, Cook was administrator of the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy, with oversight of the firefighter training system for the commonwealth.
He retired from active firefighting as assistant fire chief of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire, overseeing the day-to-day operations of a 700-person, metropolitan fire department. He has served as a career company officer in the Mount Lebanon Fire Department, and a staff instructor for Allegheny County Fire Academy. He has held every rank but Chief of Department in the Monroeville Volunteer Fire Department.
Cook attended the Allegheny County, Pennsylvania State, and National fire academies. He is a Pennsylvania state fire instructor, and has taught extensively for local fire and emergency management training agencies. He is an associate professor for the Point Park University, teaching programs in public administration.
Prior to pursuing a career in public safety, Cook was employed as a corporate controller for Consolidated Graphics, where he was a turn-around specialist.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Carnegie Mellon University, and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Phoenix. He has a second Bachelor of Science degree in fire administration from Columbia Southern University.
Cook received his Chief Fire Officer and Chief Training Officer designations from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.
He has received awards as Fire Instructor of the Year, Fire Officer of the Year, and letters of commendation for his work managing various projects within the fire service. Cook has been decorated twice in his career for rescues, earning a unit citation for rescues made from an apartment fire in Mount Lebanon, and the Red Cross Hero Medal for the rescue of a civilian prior to the arrival of suppression units in Pittsburgh.
John 'J.C.' Tedorski, Deputy State Fire Commissioner
John "J.C." Tedorski has 39 years of experience in the fire service as a member of Arnold Volunteer Engine Company No. 2, having worked his way through the ranks from junior firefighter to assistant chief.
In 2008, he was appointed city fire chief by city council, with oversight of two fire companies operating in the city. He served in that role for 12 years.
Until his appointment as Deputy Fire Commissioner, he held the elected office of secretary of the Western Pennsylvania Firemen’s Association for 33 years. As the needs of the organization changed, his role was transitioned to an executive director position in 2019.
Tedorski serves as peer debriefer and board member of the Pittsburgh Critical Incident Stress Management team. He has been an active member of the team for more than 20 years, and has received a founders citation from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation for his efforts in the area of mental health of first responders.
He has served as a local level and adjunct instructor for the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy since 2005, focusing on officer and instructor development courses He has been recognized as Firefighter of the Year and Instructor of the Year by various statewide organizations.
Tedorski worked as a business education teacher, technology director, district safety and security coordinator, and central office administrator for the Kiski Area School District for 30 years.
He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, with a double major in administrative management and education from Robert Morris University, a Master of Education degree from the University of Pittsburgh, and a Doctor of Education degree from California University of Pennsylvania.
Tedorski also holds certificates as a business education teacher, technology specialist, principal, and a superintendent letter of eligibility from the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Harvey Boyer, Fire Academy Administrator
Harvey Boyer is an accomplished individual with an extensive career spanning more than 33 years in business management. Throughout his professional journey, he has garnered a deep understanding of key areas including customer service, marketing, human resources, and accounting. Leveraging his vast business experience, he has successfully transitioned his skills and knowledge into the field of emergency services.
Boyer has dedicated more than 42 years of his life to serving the public. He has held numerous positions within the Elysburg Fire Department, including assistant chief, president, captain, lieutenant, and Firefighter of the Year in 2019. His leadership and dedication have been recognized and celebrated within the fire service community.
Boyer has made significant contributions to other fire departments, serving as president of the Shamokin Fire Bureau, and Lieutenant of the Friendship Fire Engine and Hose Company No. 1. His life-saving attempt earned him the 6 County Heroism Award for showcasing his bravery and quick thinking in high-pressure situations. He has demonstrated his adaptability and versatility by serving as lieutenant and captain of Station 300 in Trevorton, PA, making valuable contributions to different fire stations.
Outside of his fire department roles, Boyer has been actively involved in community service. His 12-year term as chairman of the Ralpho Township Planning Commission highlights his dedication to shaping the development and growth of the community. As the producer and coordinator of Fire Cadet Weekend for seven years, he has played a pivotal role in inspiring and educating youth about the fire service.
Boyer's passion for teaching extends to his role as a Pennsylvania State Fire Suppression Instructor, where he contributes to the professional development of aspiring firefighters.
Boyer continues to actively respond to emergencies as a valued member of the Elysburg Fire Department. As an EMT, he is dedicated to providing holistic care and assistance to those in need during critical situations.
