Jesse J. Cottrell - Chief
Chief Cottrell was born in Warren, Ohio. His family relocated to Pinellas County, FL when he was just two years old. A Floridian ever since, Jesse worked in the hospitality industry up until the age of 28. At that point, he decided to go into the firefighting and medical field. He graduated from Fire and EMT school in 2001.
The hospital where Jesse completed his clinicals created a position for him as an ER Technician until the position as a local firefighter was available. The hospital was kind enough to sponsor and send him for further development to become a Paramedic, which he enjoyed greatly. While attending paramedic school in 2003, Jesse was offered a position at Desoto County Fire and Rescue. This department provided both fire service and medical transport. Jesse worked at this department for roughly 11 months when Bonita Springs Fire and Rescue called to recruit him, offering him a position. Jesse joined the Bonita Spring Fire and Rescue District in January of 2004. In the same year, he gained state certification as a Medic – fulfilling his goals of providing both medical and fire service. He holds various credentials such as Instructor 1, Fire Officer 1 & 2 as well as State Certified Safety Officer.
Jesse has worked at the Upper Captiva Fire and Rescue since 2006. He was promoted to Lieutenant and held that rank for many years before being asked to step in as Interim Chief in 2023.
In February 2024, Jesse Cottrell’s Chief status was made official by the Upper Captiva Fire and Rescue District Board of Commissioners. Jesse appreciates the island’s unique characteristics and sense of community. Year over year, he continues to learn more about the ever-changing dynamic of the island. Jesse believes that when one surrounds themself with quality leadership and a focused team, the product is a well-oiled machine. He describes his Command Staff as second to none and highly values the bonds and support each firefighter, paramedic or EMT provides in the fire station’s successful operation. Chief Cottrell seeks to continue in the development of community partnerships, is proactive in safety awareness and is deeply committed to dependable emergency response.