Rick Bova, 33 years old from suburban Detroit. Currently a Firefighter/Paramedic with the Southfield Fire Department; been with them for the past 6 years. 9 years total structural firefighter experience; 7 full time, 2 volunteer. Basic Fire Academy and Advanced Fire Training instructor at local community college. Rick received BS in Fire Science at Lake Superior State University in 2013. Rick has been working in various fire service related jobs since 2013 in addition to a structural firefighter such as a wildland firefighter with the US Forest Service as well as a few years dealing with fire prevention and protection. Rick has been married to his wonderful wife, Renee, for 4 years. They welcomed their first child into the world just over a month ago, a beautiful baby girl. His hobbies center a lot around the study of the fire service, but others include traveling the world with his wife, and physical exercise combined with mental fitness. He has completed various races including 3 full marathons, the IRONMAN triathlon, as well as a 100 mile ultramarathon.

Rick also Co-presented a lecture at the 2024 Great Lakes HOT Fire Conference titled “THEM vs US”, highlighting the problems facing today’s fire service where we are starting to value our own safety/well-being well before those we have sworn to serve.

Rick Bova as a lot of pride and passion for the fire service. Rick overcame some serious medical issues to achieve his dream of being a firefighter. Once Rick obtained his dream job, there was no turning back for him. Rick has been full steam ahead spreading the good word, but not to forget that Family comes first! I truly hope you enjoy listening to how passionate and energetic Rick is when talking about his love for the fire service and of serving others.