Purdue University Fire Department welcomes new firefighters with swearing-in ceremony 

The Purdue University Fire Department recently held a swearing-in ceremony to officially welcome three new firefighters.  

Alex Beers joins the department as a firefighter/paramedic. A 2024 Purdue graduate, Beers is a certified EMT and has spent the past three years working for PUFD as a student employee. He will be attending the Lafayette Fire Department Recruit Academy this fall to obtain basic fire and hazardous materials training.

Cody Eldridge joins PUFD as a firefighter/paramedic. Eldridge previously served three years with the Center Township Fire Department in Lebanon, Indiana. A licensed paramedic, he also spent several years working with Witham Health Services.

Chas Price joins the department as a firefighter/paramedic. Price has 11 years of experience serving as a volunteer firefighter with the West Point Volunteer Fire Department. He is a certified firefighter and EMT with specialized training in hazardous materials response and pump operations.

Additionally, Corey Matricia was promoted to captain after 17 years of service to PUFD. Colin McCormick was named lieutenant inspector, the department’s newest position.

“We are thrilled to officially welcome these three talented individuals to the Purdue University Fire Department,” Chief Brad Anderson said. “Their diverse backgrounds and extensive experience will undoubtedly enhance our team’s capabilities and contribute significantly to the safety and well-being of our campus community. Additionally, I want to congratulate Corey Matricia and Colin McCormick on their well-deserved promotions. Their leadership and commitment to excellence are truly commendable, and they will play a vital role in our department’s continued success.”

PUFD is part of the Administrative Operations organization, which supports the university through safe, reliable and transformative services. The addition of these new team members strengthens the department’s ability to serve the campus community effectively, ensuring that PUFD continues to uphold the high standards of safety and reliability that Purdue depends on. Such contributions are just one of the many ways Administrative Operations helps power Purdue.