In 2001, when the Barrow County Fire Department and Barrow County EMS merged into one department, Skinner took the first promotional test which created the department rank structure. As a result of that testing, he was promoted to Captain/Shift Commander in January 2002.

The position was later reclassified as Battalion Chief, and he held that position until accepting the Interim Chief position.

Married for six years to Kristy Skinner, the couple have two boys, 4-year-old Weston and Wren, who will be 2 next month. Although they currently live in Jackson County, the Skinners have many friends and family members throughout Barrow County.

Some of the challenges faced by Barrow County Emergency Services are already being addressed by Chief Skinner.

With five full-time positions open in the Fire Department, two of those positions have been filled this week, with another two firefighters in the final stages of hiring with Human Resources.

At mid-week, an additional 13 applicants completed the testing portion of hiring. Out of this group, Chief Skinner said he hopes to have the fifth position filled. In addition, some of these applicants were looking for part -time work.

Chief Skinner indicates he is working toward taking the number of part-time positions from 16 to a minimum of 20. Chief Skinner has also met numerous times with commissioners, Chairman Yearwood and firefighters in addressing the staffing concerns.

"Staffing is a concern not only with Barrow County, but with departments all around us," said Chief Skinner. "I am working with all involved to try and work out the greatest situation for not only the fire department but the citizens we serve as well.

Cost-savings are also being explored. The way the department handles drug box refills is one money-saving possibility.

Capt. Bryan Bullock is working toward department-wide officer training to help the officers in the way they conduct their jobs. Cross-training some of the firefighters in 911 dispatching is proposed so these firefighters would be able to assist the 911 department when there is a huge increase in call volume or if there is a staffing shortage.

Chief Skinner is also now working with Fleet Maintenance on some of the apparatus and equipment problems being experienced within the department.

Battalion Chief Jonathan Franklin has been assigned to head up the maintenance scheduling and to work with the Fleet Maintenance Department.

One improvement that has already come from Franklin’s meetings with Fleet personnel is that a Fleet staffer will travel to every station on a regular schedule and replace any lights out on the apparatus.

"This will allow the emergency vehicles to stay in service and in their assigned zone," said Chief Skinner. "It will also be a benefit in cutting fuel costs."

"There are many challenges in running the Barrow County Emergency Services at any time and even more so in this economy," said Chief Skinner.

"While I am in this position, I will be working with all involved to make sure that we give the best possible service to our citizens while keeping a close eye on all budgetary expenses," said Chief Skinner.