Deputy Chief Janene Schmidt began her fire service career as a volunteer in Berkeley County in 1992. With the exception of a short season focused on completing her MBA, building her professional career, and raising her family, she has remained actively involved with Pine Ridge Fire Rescue for nearly 25 years.

She advanced through the ranks of Firefighter, Engineer, and Lieutenant in Operations being honored as both Rookie of the Year and Firefighter of the Year.

Deputy Chief Schmidt previously led the Administrative Division, overseeing the Fire Marshal’s Office, Community Risk Reduction, Finance, and Administration. Today, following consolidation, she focuses on financial strategy and oversight for South Berkeley Fire District. She also serves as the lead fire investigator and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operator in support of the department’s mission to protect life and property.