Three New Brunswick Firefighters Receive Promotions

New Brunswick, N.J. — September 2 — At a ceremony held at City Hall, three New Brunswick Fire Department employees received promotions in recognition of their years of service and were placed in new leadership roles.

Family, friends, and other firemen attended the event, which was presided over by Mayor Jim Cahill and Fire Director Chris Stellatella.

Michael Pilch received a promotion to Deputy Chief. Pilch joined the fire department in 2006, according to information made public by the City of New Brunswick.

After joining the department in 2014, Oneill Martinez received a promotion to Captain. Additionally, Martinez is the grandson of Epifanio "Freddie" Colon, who from 1965 to 1991 was the first Hispanic firefighter in New Brunswick.

Jorge L. Otero Jr. received a promotion to lieutenant. In 2013, Otero became a member of the New Brunswick Fire Department. Otero was formerly employed by the City of New Brunswick as a firefighter, according to public records.

As they assume more responsibility inside the company, the promotions increase the number of seasoned officers in the department.

According to Mayor Cahill, the promotions honor the three firefighters' dedication to their jobs and stand for trust, accountability, and leadership.

Operating out of three firehouses, the New Brunswick Fire Department offers career fire and rescue services throughout the city. Residential areas, high-rise structures, medical facilities, academic institutions, and commercial properties are all protected by the department.