Meet Jonathan

Let’s skip the fluff.

I’m Jonathan Caverly. I’ve been in emergency medical services for nearly 30 years—long enough to know what works, what doesn’t, and how many times the budget can get cut before someone notices the wheels are falling off.

I started my EMS journey at Tacoma Community College and never looked back. Over the years, I’ve served as a frontline EMT, a wildland firefighter, a supervisor, and an instructor—often all in the same week. I’ve worked in cities, rural towns, and places where the only traffic jam involves livestock. I hold national and emergency management certifications, and I teach others how to do this job with skill and heart.

I live in Parkland with my wife of 25 years and a dog that thinks she’s in charge. I volunteer with Special Olympics, serve on the board for emergency management, and show up where I’m needed—even when it’s inconvenient.

I’m running for Fire Commissioner because I believe in showing up, doing the work, and taking care of the people who take care of all of us.

If you’re looking for buzzwords and slogans, I’m not your guy.
But if you want experience, accountability, and someone who won’t waste your time—pull up a chair.

Roots & Personal Life

I was born in Auburn, Washington in 1975 and have called Pierce County home for most of my life. I graduated from Auburn Adventist Academy in 1993 and now live in Parkland with my wife of 25 years. We’re proud to be part of this community and deeply committed to its future.

🔹 Education & Credentials

• High School: Auburn Adventist Academy (Class of 1993)

• EMT Training: Tacoma Community College

• Associate of Arts in Information Technology (AAIT): University of Phoenix, 2011

• Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration: University of Phoenix, 2014 (Emergency Management emphasis)

• Certifications:

  • National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT)

  • Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) – International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM)

🔹 Professional Experience

I’ve worked in emergency medical services since 1996, serving both urban and rural communities across Washington. My current professional roles include:

• Frontline EMT – Grays Harbor County (Hoquiam)

• EMS Instructor – Idaho Medical Academy, Seattle Campus

• Volunteer EMT, EMS Supervisor & Wildland Firefighter – Okanogan County Fire District 12
  I also provide field supervision, lead trainings, and regularly mentor new EMTs entering the field.

🔹 Community Involvement

Public service has always extended beyond my professional roles. I actively volunteer with:

• Special Olympics Washington – Medical support and event safety

• Emergency Management Group of Washington – Board member and responder

• Civil Air Patrol – Emergency response and youth development programs

• Fraternal Organizations – Member of several historic and service-focused groups promoting leadership, civic responsibility, and community service

🔹 Why I’m Running

Pierce Fire’s newly unified structure presents both challenges and opportunities. I’m running for Fire Commissioner because I believe this district deserves leadership grounded in firsthand experience, strategic thinking, and a deep respect for public trust.

I’ll fight for:

• Faster, smarter emergency response

• Fiscal responsibility without cutting corners

• Support and accountability for our firefighters and EMS crews

• Stronger ties between the district and the communities we serve

Leadership you can count on. Service you can trust. Commitment you’ve already seen.
Let’s get to work—together.