BiographyFire Chief · Hyannis Fire Department · Candidate, IAFC 2nd Vice President 2027
More than two decades of career fire service — from the fireground to the national stage. Chief Burke brings operational depth, academic rigor, and a record of collaborative leadership to his candidacy for Second Vice President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.
Chief Peter J. Burke, Jr. began his career as a firefighter with the Hyannis Fire Department in 2002. Over the following two decades he rose through every rank of the department, becoming a Chief Officer in 2012 and Fire Chief in 2017 — a position he holds today, leading a full-service career department on Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
His academic credentials reflect the same commitment to excellence: a B.S. in Fire Science from Providence College, a Master of Science in Emergency Management from Massachusetts Maritime Academy, an executive seminar at Harvard Kennedy School, and a Chief Fire Officer designation from UMass Boston. He also holds a Local Government Leadership certificate from Suffolk University.
Beyond the department, Chief Burke has dedicated himself to developing the profession. As an Instructor and Coordinator at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy and an Adjunct Instructor at Cape Cod Community College, he has shaped the training and education of hundreds of firefighters across the Commonwealth.
At the national level, he serves as International Director on the IAFC New England Division Board of Directors and sits on the IAFC Communications Committee and Technology Council. He co-coordinated the New England Division's inaugural Technology Symposium and Health and Wellness Symposium — events that have directly benefited fire service leaders across the region.
"Exceptional skill, professionalism, and dedication to the community."
— Laura Cronin
Chair · Hyannis Fire District Board of Commissioners
Began his career as a career firefighter on Cape Cod, Massachusetts — the start of more than two decades of service to the Hyannis community.
Earned a Bachelor of Science in Fire Science, building the academic foundation for a career in fire service leadership.
Promoted to Chief Officer, taking on command-level responsibilities and department-wide leadership for the first time.
Completed a Master of Science in Emergency Management, deepening expertise in large-scale incident coordination and regional preparedness.
Joined the faculty at Cape Cod Community College, teaching fire science and emergency services courses to the next generation of first responders.
Took on an instructor and coordinator role at the MFA, shaping statewide training standards and curriculum for firefighters across Massachusetts.
Appointed Fire Chief of the Hyannis Fire Department — a full-service career department serving Cape Cod. Under his leadership the department has advanced technology integration, health and wellness initiatives, and regional mutual aid coordination.
Elected President of FCAM, representing fire chiefs across the Commonwealth and advocating for resources, legislation, and professional development at the state level.
Elected to the IAFC New England Division Board of Directors as International Director, representing New England fire chiefs on the national stage and co-coordinating the Division's inaugural Technology Symposium and Health and Wellness Symposium.
Completed the Leadership in Homeland Security executive seminar at Harvard Kennedy School — one of the nation's most rigorous programs for senior public safety leaders.
Earned the Chief Fire Officer designation through UMass Boston, a credential recognizing the highest standard of professional achievement in the fire service.
Completed the Local Government Leadership certificate program at Suffolk University, reinforcing skills in municipal administration, policy, and public-sector management.

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