Although Ryan Belcher didn’t begin his firefighting journey at Conshohocken Fire Company No. 2, it’s where he now calls home.

Ryan started in the fire service as a junior firefighter as week after he turned 16. He eventually rose to the rank of Lieutenant. After moving to the city, where only career firefighters serve, he took a break from volunteering, until he moved to Conshohocken only a block away from the firehouse.

“Within the first few weeks of joining Conshohocken Fire Company No. 2, I was accepted as if I had been there for years,” said Ryan. “The level of camaraderie and support I have found at this fire company is incredible.”

Ryan has been a member since August 2023. He was voted in as Lieutenant in May of 2024 because of his previous experience.

“Conshohocken Fire Company No. 2 is a very well trained and equipped company that offers many different opportunities not found elsewhere,” said Ryan. “Not only do we respond to fire incidents, but we have a swift water rescue team, drone team and more.”

Among the vast opportunities to learn new and exciting fire-related, emergency services skills, Ryan has learned “soft skills” from his team members.

“The diverse background of the membership has allowed me to learn skills that I wouldn’t normally know in my everyday life,” said Ryan. “Someone who has never worked outside an office in their life may learn about electrical, plumbing, HVAC, operating power tools and more.”

Ryan works as a director a specialty commercial construction firm and finds his knowledge of building construction useful quite often in the fire service. This knowledge is especially useful in the growing Borough of Conshohocken.

“Although sometimes it’s a challenge to balance volunteering with work, the department is flexible and does its best to accommodate different work schedules and other commitments,” said Ryan.

Volunteers are asked to give as much time as they can. Training nights are once a week on Wednesday nights and the fire company pays for all volunteers’ education at the Montgomery County Fire Academy. Gear is also provided.

“Sometimes the biggest hurdle is making the first move,” said Ryan, who encourages community members to stop by the fire station and see what it’s all about.

To take the next step toward volunteering, fill out an inquiry form on the “Join Us” page.