Meet our instructors
Michael McNabb - Training Coordinator, Lead Instructor
My name is Mike, I currently serve as a career Firefighter assigned to the Truck Company in the Auburn Fire Department, and I bring over 26 years of combined career and volunteer firefighting experience to the fire service. , where I continue to build on a lifelong commitment to operational excellence, training, and service.
I am a Nationally Certified Fire Instructor II and a New York State Fire Instructor, teaching at the State Fire Academy as well as across multiple instructor authorization programs. I’m also a Hands-On Training (HOT) Instructor for the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs, where I help deliver high-quality, practical training to firefighters from across the region.
With more than two decades in the fire service, I am dedicated to developing effective, realistic, and mission-focused training that prepares firefighters to operate safely and confidently. My teaching philosophy is built on experience, accountability, and helping departments elevate their operational readiness through thoughtful, purpose-driven instruction.
Brian Jessie - Lead Instructor
My name is Brian, and I am currently a Lieutenant with the Auburn Fire Department, bringing more than 20 years of combined career and volunteer fire service experience. Throughout my career, I have focused on operational excellence, leadership, and high-quality training that enhances firefighter safety and performance.
I am a Nationally Certified Fire Instructor I, a New York State Fire Instructor assigned to the NYS Fire Academy, and a Hands-On Training (HOT) Instructor for the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs. In these roles, I have the privilege of training firefighters from across the region, delivering both foundational and advanced skills through realistic, structured, and experience-driven instruction.
With two decades of service, I am committed to the development of today’s fire service professionals and to providing training that is practical, relevant, and directly applicable to the mission. My goal is to help firefighters and departments operate more effectively, make safer decisions, and continue raising the standard of the fire service.
Chris Burns - Fire and CPR Instructor
My name is Chris, and I currently serve as a Captain with the Auburn Fire Department. With over 25 years of combined career and volunteer fire service experience, I have dedicated my career to advancing operational excellence, developing firefighter readiness, and supporting the safety of the communities we serve.
I am a Nationally Certified Fire Instructor I and a Municipal Fire Instructor (MFI) for the City of Auburn, where I provide structured, experience-driven training to personnel across multiple disciplines. I also serve as a certified CPR and First Aid Instructor through the American Heart Association, delivering critical lifesaving education to both emergency responders and the public.
Throughout my career, I have maintained a strong commitment to professional development, mentorship, and enhancing the capabilities of today’s fire service. I strive to provide training that is clear, relevant, and applicable to real-world operations ensuring that firefighters are prepared to operate safely, effectively, and confidently in any environment.
Travis Poole - Fire and CPR Instructor
My name is Travis, and I currently serve as a Lieutenant with the Auburn Fire Department. With more than three decades of combined career and volunteer service, I’ve built my career around strengthening firefighter performance, advancing professional standards, and supporting the growth of the next generation of firefighters.
I am a Nationally Certified Fire Instructor II and a New York State Fire Instructor assigned to Cayuga County. In addition to county-level instruction, I assist with program delivery at the NYS Fire Academy, contributing to high-level training initiatives across the state. I also serve as a CPR and First Aid Instructor for the American Heart Association, helping ensure both responders and community members are equipped with essential lifesaving skills.
With decades of experience, I value the opportunity to mentor firefighters at all stages of their careers. I believe in building strong foundations, refining advanced skills, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within every department I work with.
Wanna join our team
Fire Instructors
A Fire Instructor for Fingerlakes Fire Training is responsible for delivering high-quality, professional fire service training that meets established standards and supports the development of new and experienced firefighters. This role requires a minimum of 10 years of fire service experience and National Certification as a Fire Instructor I. Fire Instructors are expected to deliver both classroom and hands-on instruction, evaluate student performance, enforce safety protocols, and ensure all training aligns with local, state, and national guidelines. Successful instructors demonstrate strong communication skills, practical operational knowledge, and the ability to mentor firefighters across all skill levels while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and safety.
CPR/First Aid Instructors
A CPR/First Aid Instructor is responsible for delivering accurate, engaging, and effective lifesaving skills training to both emergency responders and members of the public. Candidates must have a minimum of 10 years of instructional experience through either the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross, and must hold current certifications as both a provider and an instructor. Instructors are expected to lead structured training sessions, evaluate student performance, maintain strict adherence to organizational guidelines, and ensure all course content reflects current medical protocols and best practices. Successful instructors demonstrate strong communication skills, professionalism, and a commitment to preparing students to confidently perform critical lifesaving interventions