MICHAEL Delehanty
Company: City of Rutland Fire Department
Title: Firefighter
Age: 34
Favorite Part of Job: Rewarding to serve the community I grew up in. The satisfaction in saving lives and property and helping people in need. Being part of an incredible team.
Most Inspiring Mentor: My Grandfather David Zullo. 89 years old and still working 7 days a week. Tough as nails, and won’t slow down! Someone who has taught me so much over the years. Such an incredible man.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: I love to draw and sketch.
What three words best describe you: Motivated. Dedicated. Creative.
Favorite Vermont Escape: Anywhere my bicycle will take me to take in the incredible green mountain views.
Favorite Downtime Activity: Electric Bicycle and Golf!
Favorite Super Hero: Batman of course.
Favorite Social Media: Instagram. There is nothing better than a picture to tell a story.
Person you would like to share a Vermont beverage with: My Dad’s Dad. He passed away when my father was only 17. Such an incredible person to grow up hearing about. I’d love to sit and chat with him.
If you had unlimited access to funds, which causes would you support: If I could I would fund every humane society across America, along with building a huge backyard so no animal would ever be homeless again.
What is the best career advice you have received: You’ll never know unless you try.
Where do you see yourself professionally in ten years: Continuing to serve the Rutland Community in any way I possibly can, while moving our beautiful City forward.
What else would you like to accomplish in the next 5-10 years: To continue building on Rutland’s beauty and character and be a part of the amazing efforts put in by so many to make Rutland the incredible place it is today.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont: I was born and raised in Vermont, but I have never taken for granted the beauty of this state through all four seasons. I am also grateful every day for the state-wide playground that is Vermont. I was born here, but I stayed because I couldn’t imagine not being able to bike, golf, hike, boat without Vermont’s scenery as a backdrop.
Career Highlights: Deployment to both Hurricane Harvey in Texas (2017) and Hurricane Florence in North Carolina (2018) to help victims recover life and property. Recognition from career superiors for my role in saving resident life on two separation occasions.
Community Involvement: I was born and raised in Rutland, and I have a deep love and appreciation for this community. I’m inspired by all the good things happening around this region, and strive to be a part it. I am drawn to activities that highlight the important work being done by the various non-profits in our county, and have no problem making a fool of myself on their behalf. Some of my volunteer efforts have included:
· The Lip Sync Battle benefitting Wonderfeet Kids Museum
· The Newlywed Game benefitting our community food shelves/banks
· Red Cross Blood Drive
· VIP for PEGTV
· Support VNA/Hospice program/events
· Support local Rotary efforts/events
