21-year Glen Ellyn firefighter transitions to new role as chief

Jeff Buccola always knew he was going to be a firefighter.

While he was growing up in Glen Ellyn, his father was a member of the Glen Ellyn Volunteer Fire Company, and eventually, Buccola became a member.

Now, a little more than 21 years later, Buccola is the company's newest chief, a role he is happy to play, although he admits it does feel a bit strange.

“I think of when I was young, and looking at the chiefs then, I was intimidated,” Buccola said. “It's weird to think that's me after 21 years.”

Buccola officially became chief Nov. 9 to complete former chief Pete Campbell's term, after Campbell resigned for personal reasons. The current one-year term will end in April, at which time Buccola plans to run again.

Both the chief and assistant chief positions are elected by members of the Volunteer Fire Company, typically through a floor nomination process.

Buccola said his new role at the company has been going well so far.

“It's the members of the company who make this job easy,” he said, citing the hard work and dedication shown by his fellow firefighters.

The company is funded entirely by donations from Glen Ellyn residents, rather than tax dollars. Funds are used to pay for equipment and gear and to compensate the firefighters who work the day shift on weekdays.

“The community has done a great job keeping us going,” Buccola said.

During the day, the company has three firefighters on duty in order to staff one of its fire engines. On nights and weekends, all firefighters respond from home, and their work is completely volunteer.

Outside of his job with the fire company, Buccola works for the West Chicago Fire Department. His shifts with the department last 24 hours, and then he receives 48 hours off, which he spends with the Glen Ellyn Volunteer Fire Company.

The job may be dangerous, but Buccola said it keeps him going to know he's helping people.

“It's nice to be able to look back and say you've made a difference,” Buccola said.

About Jeff Buccola
RESIDENCE Glen Ellyn
FAMILY Wife, Heather; daughter, Ali
EDUCATION Fire Science degree from College of DuPage
NOTABLE After working as a firefighter in Glen Ellyn for more than 21 years, Buccola recently was elected the fire company's newest chief.