News & Events
City Tech Alumnus Salvatore Cassano Appointed FDNY's Chief of Department
New York City College of Technology (City Tech) alumnus Salvatore Cassano was recently sworn in as the Fire Department of New York's (FDNY) Chief of Department, the highest-ranking uniformed position in the agency. In this role, he will oversee the department’s three major uniformed bureaus: operations, training and fire prevention.
Chief Cassano, who received an associate degree in fire protection technology from City Tech in 1970, is a 36-year veteran of the department. Prior to this appointment, he served for nearly five years as Chief of Operations, the second-highest uniformed FDNY rank, managing the department's daily fire and Emergency Medical Services operations for 11,500 firefighters and 2,800 emergency medical technicians and paramedics. In this role, he was integral in rebuilding the department following the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
According to Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta, "Chief Cassano is a strong, committed leader with a wealth of knowledge and experience who represents the best in this department. Due to his efforts, our firefighters, emergency medical technicians and paramedics are better trained, equipped and prepared to respond more safely and effectively to every type of emergency in New York City. I am confident the department will prosper under his leadership.”
Chief Cassano, who grew up in the Carroll Gardens section of Brooklyn, became a New York City firefighter in November 1969, and worked for several years at engine companies in lower Manhattan. He was promoted to lieutenant in 1977 and worked at Ladder 113 in Brooklyn, where he also served after his promotion to captain in 1984. He continued to rise through the ranks as Battalion Chief (1987), Deputy Chief (1993), Deputy Assistant Chief (1999) and Assistant Chief (2001), undertaking various assignments throughout the city, including responsibility as the on-duty Citywide Tour Commander. He has been cited five times for bravery during his career.
"I found the whole learning process at City Tech to be a refreshing experience," Chief Cassano said. "The courses I took in building construction, chemistry, hydraulics and management, among others, have been helpful to me in my professional endeavors. I also made many friends at the College who have remained friends throughout my career."
In addition to his degree from City Tech, Chief Cassano holds a bachelor of science degree in fire science from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. He and his wife, Theresa, reside in Staten Island. They have five children.
New York City College of Technology (City Tech) of The City University of New York is a recognized national model for urban technological education and a pioneer in integrating technology into the teaching/learning experience. The largest public college of technology in New York State, City Tech enrolls more than 12,000 students in 57 baccalaureate, associate and specialized certificate programs. It is located at 300 Jay Street in Downtown Brooklyn, convenient to public transportation.
08/8/06
