Igniting Futures: A JJC Alum’s Role in Fire Science and Community Impact
In this episode of the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis brings National Fire Prevention Month into focus with an interview featuring Craig Mateski, a dedicated firefighter, paramedic, and fire science instructor. Mateski shares his 30+ year career journey, starting from his early days at Juliet Junior College (JJC) to his recent roles as a fire commissioner for Morris, Illinois, and a fire science instructor. He reflects on the crucial role JJC played in shaping his career and underscores the importance of hard work and persistence for aspiring firefighters. Craig also discusses his teaching experience at Grundy Area Vocational Center, where he inspires future firefighters.
The conversation navigates through the challenges and rewards of a fire service career and emphasizes the growth and opportunities provided by JJC’s fire science program. Mateski's story is also highlighted in the upcoming Fall 2025 Connections Magazine. This insightful episode is a testament to dedication, lifelong learning, and giving back to the community.
Creators and Guests
Host
Jen Davis
Jen Davis currently serves as the Director of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations at Joliet Junior College. A former English instructor, she has spent more than two decades in higher education, supporting students at various stages of their academic and professional journeys. In her leadership role, Jen oversees initiatives that strengthen connections between JJC and its alumni, fostering engagement and building lasting relationships. Her responsibilities include strategic planning for alumni outreach, organizing small and large-scale events, managing annual giving campaigns, and collaborating across departments to create meaningful opportunities for alumni involvement.
Producer
Amanda Quinn
Amanda Quinn serves as the Executive Director of the Joliet Junior College Foundation and Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, a role she assumed in January 2026. Throughout her career at JJC, she has held several key positions including Grant Writer, Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Manager, and Director of Institutional Advancement, giving her a deep understanding of the college’s philanthropic priorities and partnerships. With more than 15 years of experience in fundraising, communications, and marketing, Amanda leads philanthropic engagement strategies that advance student success. Her strategic vision, strong donor relationships, and commitment to JJC’s mission continue to drive the college’s growth and impact.
Guest
Craig Mateski
Craig Mateski: Fire Commissioner, Retired Battalion Chief and GAVC Fire Science Instructor. With over three decades of dedication to the fire service, Craig Mateski began his career in 1990 as a volunteer firefighter and full-time paramedic with the Troy Fire Department. As one of the first six paramedics to help establish Troy as an Advanced Life Support provider, he laid the groundwork for enhanced emergency care in the community. In 1996, he joined the Aurora Fire Department, where he served until 2022 in various roles, including firefighter/paramedic, Fire Investigator, Junior Fire Setter Counselor, Public Information Officer, and member of the Hiring and Background Board. Rising through the ranks, he was promoted to Lieutenant in 2008, Captain in 2016, appointed Battalion Chief in 2019, and Shift Commander in 2021. His service was recognized with multiple Unit Citations, including for a trench rescue, a fatal apartment fire response, and lifesaving care for a child attacked by dogs. In 2023, he transitioned to education, teaching Introduction and Advanced Fire Science at Grundy Area Vocational Center. In 2025, he was appointed Fire Commissioner for the Morris Fire Department, where he is instrumental in hiring and developing a full-time firefighting staff and promotional process. Craig holds an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science from Joliet Junior College and is a proud alum serving on the JJC Foundation board.
