Our Team
At Aspirant Consulting Group, we recognize that our organization's strength comes from the combined expertise and commitment of our team. Made up of seasoned professionals, we are dedicated to helping public safety agencies enhance their operations, strengthen community relations, and achieve greater effectiveness. Discover the individuals who drive our mission forward.
Our Founders
Madeline Lewis
Madeline Lewis is the Founder and Managing Partner of Aspirant Consulting Group, bringing extensive operational, accreditation, and leadership experience to her work with public-safety agencies across the region. Prior to founding Aspirant, Madeline served as a patrol sergeant with the Lower Merion Township Police Department in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
During her tenure with Lower Merion Township, Madeline was assigned to the Patrol Division, Auxiliary Services Unit, Investigations Unit, and the Staff and Inspections Unit, giving her broad exposure to both frontline operations and administrative leadership. She served as the department’s Accreditation Manager beginning in 2016, where she oversaw both Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (PLEAC) and CALEA accreditation programs.
In this role, Madeline was responsible for managing accreditation cycles, updating and developing policies to reflect evolving standards and best practices, and coordinating the development and implementation of required training programs. Her work included conducting internal compliance reviews, preparing agencies for assessments, and performing numerous mock assessments to ensure operational readiness.
In addition to her accreditation responsibilities, Madeline served as the department’s grant writer and coordinator, is a certified physical fitness instructor, and was a member of the Hostage Negotiations Team. She has received formal training as both an Accreditation Manager and Accreditation Assessor.
Madeline founded Aspirant Consulting Group to provide agencies with practical, legally sound, and operationally grounded accreditation, policy, and organizational support. Her experience as a working supervisor and accreditation practitioner shapes the firm’s hands-on, client-centered approach.
484.340.2242
John String
John D. String is currently the Chief of Police for Narberth Borough. In addition to managing the police department, he is the Director of Public Safety for the Borough as well. Prior to this role, John was a Lieutenant with the Lower Merion Township Police Department in Montgomery County, PA. He was assigned to the Department’s Patrol Division as a Watch Commander and held previous positions with the Department's Staff and Inspections Unit, Canine Unit, and served as a Field Training Officer.
He is a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, the MALEEDS Regional Command College located at Princeton University, and completed FBI-LEEDA’s Leadership Trilogy training, Penn State University’s POSIT course, and several additional leadership and liability training courses. In 2016 he was trained as an accreditation manager and then as an assessor in 2017.
While assigned to the Department’s Staff and Inspections Unit, he supervised the Department’s PLEAC and CALEA reaccreditations.
John holds a Master of Arts in Public Administration from Arkansas State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Additionally, John is a Board Member of the Kindle Hill Foundation in Blue Bell, PA. The Kindle Hill Foundation focuses on providing training and therapy for various groups, including law enforcement and first responders.
610.348.8082
Our Pennsylvania Team:
Serving the Keystone State
Senior Managing Consultant
Guy Hettinger
Guy Hettinger is a Pennsylvania public safety professional with more than three decades of law enforcement and public safety leadership experience. He served for 31 years with the Penn Township Police Department in York County, Pennsylvania, where he rose through the ranks and was appointed Chief of Police in 2019. Chief Hettinger retired from police service in 2024 after a distinguished law enforcement career and continued his commitment to public safety as the Executive Director of Public Safety for York County. In that role, he brings extensive experience in police leadership, municipal public safety operations, emergency services coordination, and community-focused law enforcement. Before beginning his policing career, Chief Hettinger served in U.S. Army Intelligence, where he developed a strong foundation in discipline, analysis, and mission-focused leadership. His background in both military service and municipal law enforcement has shaped his practical, measured, and service-oriented approach to public safety leadership. Chief Hettinger earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from York College of Pennsylvania and a master’s degree from Tiffin University. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to professional policing, organizational accountability, officer development, and the delivery of effective public safety services to the communities he serves.
Senior Managing Consultant
David Steffen
Chief David Steffen was hired to establish and lead the Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Department’s 32-officer force. as the final chapter in a four-decade-year law enforcement career. Steffen retired in August of 2023 following 12 years of service as the Chief of the Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Department, this followed 27 years of service with the Northern York County Regional Police Department, a 65-officer department serving 80,000 residents. During his career, Chief Steffen developed specializations in advanced forensics and death investigations, as well as child abuse and sex offense investigations. He has been assigned to countless complex criminal cases and has investigated over a dozen homicides including the arrest of a serial killer who was portrayed in the national media. As the final chapter of his rewarding career, Chief Steffen was provided a unique opportunity to command a newly formed regional police department and put the lessons learned in a career of regional policing into a newly created department from the actual beginning of the agency. Since the formation period on January 1, 2012, the newly established Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Department serving the residents of Clay Township, Penn Township, Warwick Township, and the Borough of East Petersburg. Since its inception, the NLCRPD has emerged as a policy-driven high-performance, progressive, professional, full-service law enforcement agency utilizing technology, and training, with an emphasis on the career development of agency members in the delivery of high-quality police services to approximately 42,500 residents. A native of Fairview Township, York County, Chief Steffen is a graduate of Red Land High School in York County, Harrisburg Area Community College, and has completed extensive coursework in criminal justice and criminal justice administration from The Pennsylvania State University, Elizabethtown College, and has advanced police and command training from Penn State University and attended the Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command conducted at Evanston, Illinois. Chief Steffen served and completed terms of office as the as President and Chairman of the Executive Board of the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association, and the Central Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association, and as an officer and executive committee member of the Lancaster County Chiefs of Police, and the Lancaster County Criminal Justice Advisory Board. He served on numerous executive committees affecting members of the law enforcement community including the legislative, training, and education committee. In addition, he was appointed to the Pennsylvania Department of Alcohol Programming Methadone Death Review Committee, the Medical Marijuana Committee, and other multi-disciplinary task forces. He is also a member of the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission Board, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and other professional organizations. Chief Steffen has participated in numerous roundtables and other executive panels across the Commonwealth advocating the professionalism of police officers across the Commonwealth. While stressing the positive impacts of clear policy and accreditation as the most effective means to uniformly address concerns, demands, and solutions related to police reform.
Managing Consultant
Greg Budman
Greg Budman is a Corporal with the Pennsylvania Capitol Police in Dauphin County. He is currently assigned to the Administration Section as the Accreditation Manager, Chief Intelligence Officer and oversees the Critical Infrastructure Security Assessment Team. Since 2013, he has been assigned as the agency’s Accreditation Manager directing and managing both the state accreditation program (PLEAC) as well as international accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). He is responsible for updating policies and procedures to ensure the department is in compliance with the high standards established by both PLEAC and CALEA. Through his proficiency and expertise , the Pennsylvania Capitol Police has been recognized as a Premier Agency by the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association. In 2020, the Pennsylvania Capitol Police received their Certificate of Law Enforcement Accreditation through PLEAC and Certification of Advanced Accreditation through CALEA. He has received training as both an Accreditation Manager and Assessor. As an assessor, he has performed numerous on-site and mock assessments for Pennsylvania law enforcement agencies. Greg holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Administration of Justice from the University of Pittsburgh.
Managing Consultant
John Ross
John Ross is currently and active sergeant with the Philadelphia Police Department where he has worked for the past 36 years. Since 2015, he has been assigned as the departments’ Accreditation Manager, where his duties include: maintaining the PLEAC proofs of compliance, departmental and external policy review, the updating of policies, inspections for evidence compliance, ongoing training of professional development, and insures that the City is in compliance with all state and federal laws. John is also project manager of the Unsolved murders website, developed the Juvenile assessment center, and is Field Training coordinator for the department. John has been an Assessor who has performed many on site assessments for various agencies throughout Pennsylvania in the past 10 years. He is an active member on the board of the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission. During his time with the Philadelphia Police Department John has worked with outside agencies such as DHS, the Community Evening Resource Center, Probation and the Philadelphia courts ,Pennsylvania Crime on Commission and Delinquency on policy development to ensure collaborative reforms for juveniles that enter the system. John has a Bachelors Degree in business administration and organization management from Gwynedd Mercy University.
Accreditation Specialist
Nathan Westerman
Nathan Westerman is an administrative officer with East Lampeter Township Police Department, a Premier Accredited Agency in Lancaster County. He currently serves in the accreditation manager role for the department after serving 26 years on patrol. Officer Westerman is responsible for ensuring the agency complies with and meets PLEAC accreditation standards. Officer Westerman is also tasked with managing the update and review of department policies. He oversees the documentation and tracking of officer training. During his years on patrol, Officer Westerman has served in several roles including platoon OIC and Field Training Officer. He recently initiated the completion of the field training program to a fully online platform. Officer Westerman served as the department’s firearms instructor for 20 years developing a curriculum guide of firearms training for members in the East Lampeter Township Police Department. Officer Westerman holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice with a double minor in Security and Sociology from York College of Pennsylvania.
Accreditation Specialist
Michael Golden
Michael Golden Jr. is an administrative and patrol officer with the Eddystone Borough Police Department in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Serving with the agency for 15 years, he is the Accreditation Manager, ensuring compliance with PLEAC accreditation standards. Officer Golden is also a Field Training Officer and an instructor in firearms, less-lethal tactics, and first aid/CPR. His passion for education extends to teaching at the Delaware County Municipal Police Academy, and he is a Senior Operator for the Delaware County Emergency Response Team, Region 1. Additionally, Officer Golden is the Assistant Fire Marshal for the Borough of Eddystone and the EMS Supervisor, overseeing fire and EMS employees and conducting arson investigations. With 19 years of experience in the fire service, he previously served as the Fire Chief of the Tinicum Township Fire Company. His extensive experience includes working with combination fire departments and adapting to evolving Fire/EMS operations and standards. Officer Golden holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Administration from Neumann University.
Accreditation Specialist
Dennis Marsili
Dennis L. Marsili brings decades of law-enforcement, training, and accreditation experience to Aspirant Consulting Group, with a career focused on professionalism, education, and organizational accountability. His background spans municipal policing, higher education leadership, curriculum development, and accreditation management, giving him a broad and practical understanding of how standards, training, and operations intersect. Dennis served 24 years with the City of New Kensington Police Department, retiring as a Detective Sergeant. During his law-enforcement career, he developed strong experience in supervision, investigations, and administrative functions, along with a long-standing interest in training and professional development within the public safety field. Following his retirement from law enforcement, Dennis joined the Indiana University of Pennsylvania Criminal Justice Training Center (CJTC), where he served as Program Coordinator and later as Director. In that role, he oversaw academy operations, curriculum development, and instructor management, while also guiding the center through the process of achieving CALEA accreditation in 2021 and successful reaccreditation in 2025. His leadership during the accreditation process reflects a deep understanding of institutional compliance, documentation, and long-term accreditation sustainability. While serving as Director, Dennis also led the development and implementation of the School Security Personnel (SSP) course following the enactment of Pennsylvania Act 67. This program expanded training opportunities across the Commonwealth and strengthened the CJTC’s operational and financial sustainability. Dennis holds both a Master of Arts and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He continues to support public safety and education as a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Consultant and as an Adjunct Professor in the Psychology, Counseling, and Criminology Department at Carlow University. At Aspirant Consulting Group, Dennis supports agencies across Pennsylvania and beyond with accreditation consulting and training-focused support. He brings a thoughtful, education-centered approach to accreditation, helping agencies strengthen compliance while maintaining practical, well-designed training and operational systems.
Accreditation Specialist
Courtenay DeLaney
Courtenay DeLaney is currently a Police Officer and Accreditation Manager with the West Whiteland Township Police Department, where she has served for over 24 years. Her experience includes frontline policing, accreditation management, and ensuring compliance with professional standards and best practices. Courtenay began her career in Chester County and later served in Lancaster County before returning to West Whiteland Township. Her experience across multiple jurisdictions has provided her with a well-rounded understanding of law enforcement operations, community engagement, and agency practices. In addition to her patrol responsibilities, Courtenay has served as a negotiator with both the Chester County Regional Emergency Response Team (CCRERT) and the Lancaster County CERT Team, where she operated in high-pressure and critical incident environments. For the past six years, Courtenay has served as an Accreditation Manager, where her duties include maintaining proofs of compliance and leading efforts to ensure agencies meet established standards. Courtenay attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania and is a graduate of the Delaware County Police Academy, Class of 2001. Courtenay is a lifelong member of the Chester County community, having grown up in Uwchlan Township, and currently resides in Upper Uwchlan Township with her family. She remains committed to professionalism in law enforcement and supporting agencies in delivering high-quality service to their communities.
Policy Implementation Specialist
Richard Zappile
Sergeant Richard Zappile is a dedicated member of the Delaware River Port Authority Police Department, working across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. His tenure has been characterized by steady contributions to Patrol Operations and involvement in various departmental initiatives including policy development, investigations, technology, training, and recruitment. Holding certifications in key areas like crisis intervention, DUI enforcement, infrastructure security, and emergency management, Rich brings a practical skill set to his role. He also possesses a Master of Science degree in Homeland Security Administration from Tiffin University and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Temple University, blending scholarly insight with practical know-how to quietly yet effectively enhance his service in law enforcement.
Policy Implementation Specialist
Joseph Blei
Joseph Blei joined the Abington Township Police Department in 2010 as a patrol officer. His tenure on patrol was distinguished by roles such as Field Training Officer (FTO), DARE Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Taser Instructor, and member of the Tactical Unit. In 2017, Blei ascended to the rank of Sergeant, furthering his commitment to the department. He continued in various collateral assignments, taking on roles such as Tactical Unit team leader and training coordinator, and advancing to Taser Master Instructor. He also achieved the MPOETC Instructor Development certification and began teaching Act 180 and municipal police academy courses. His expertise was further enhanced by completing the Force Science Analyst certification. Promoted to Lieutenant in 2022, Blei's responsibilities expanded to include Platoon Commander, Tactical Unit Commander, and head of the department's Reality-Based Training Unit. He is currently enrolled in Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, Class 563, with an expected graduation date in February 2024. During his time with the Abington Police Department, Blei has played a pivotal role in developing the department’s strategic plan and staffing studies. His academic background includes a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Villanova University. The Abington Police Department, where Blei serves, caters to a community of about 60,000 residents. The department, consisting of 93 sworn officers and 30 professional support staff, is situated on the borders of Philadelphia, covering approximately 15 square miles. It has been an accredited agency through CALEA and PLEAC since 2002.
Our New Jersey Team:
Serving the Garden State
Senior Policy Developer
Eric Higgins
Chief Higgins currently commands the West Earl Township Police Department, a position he assumed in January 2020 after a 26-year tenure with the Lakehurst NJ Police Department, culminating in his role as Chief of Police. His journey into law enforcement began post his six-year commitment as an Infantryman in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves. His early career showcased excelled in patrol duties, particularly in DUI enforcement and narcotics interdiction. Chief Higgins further honed his skills as a SWAT operator, contributing significantly to regional teams. As a member of the Lakehurst/Manchester Emergency Response Team, on September 11, 2001, he responded to the World Trade Center to assist in the recovery efforts at ground zero after the terrorist attacks. Transitioning to leadership roles, Chief Higgins played a central role in the evolution and modernization of the Lakehurst Police Department. Under his guidance, the department introduced significant innovations, including a new police facility, the integration of mobile reporting tools, and the pioneering adoption of a Body-Worn Camera program in New Jersey around 2012. Collaborating with his team, Chief Higgins guided his department through the intricate process of accreditation, ensuring alignment with the best practices in law enforcement. This commitment to standards and excellence didn't end in Lakehurst; as Chief of the West Earl Township Police Department, he recently steered the department to achieve state accreditation, further demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the value of accreditation. Chief Higgins has a bachelor's and a master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and is graduate of the FBI Mid-Atlantic Law Enforcement Executive Development course and the 234th session of the FBI National Academy, among others. Additionally, Chief Higgins has been a voice and leader in several regional and international police associations. His dedication to community welfare is also marked by his association with D.A.R.E. America, where he holds an executive board position, advocating for drug education since 2017.
Senior Policy Developer
Jacqueline Luthcke
Jacqueline “Jacquie” Luthcke attended Ohio University and graduated with honors majoring in Sociology with a Criminology specialty and a minor in psychology. It was there that she started volunteering for the Red Cross, which she continued to do for the next 20+ years. She taught many instructor level classes and sat on various boards during that 20 years. Jacquie was hired by the Ridgewood Police Department as a police officer in 1996 and after spending time on patrol, in the detective bureau, the professional standards unit, and being heavily involved in community policing, she rose through the ranks with promotions in 2005 to Sergeant, 2008 to Lieutenant, 2010 to Captain and finally 2016 to Chief, a position she help until her retirement in 2023. While with the department, she attended the West Point Command and Leadership training offered by the New Jersey State Association Chief’s of Police where she graduated top in class and received the Chief Harry Wilde Academic Achievement Award. Jacquie is a Past President of the New Jersey Public Safety Accreditation Coalition, where she is still a board member. She spent time as a Commissioner with the New Jersey State Association Chief’s of Police Law Enforcement Accreditation/Commission for Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) Alliance Program. In addition, she was also an assessor with the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), where she went out and inspected other police departments across the nation to ensure they were following the best practice guidelines put out by CALEA and was a Team Leader in the state program. Jacquie was involved in numerous committees in Ridgewood, including the Community Relations Advisory Board, Fourth of July Committee, PRIDE and the Interfaith Ministry. In addition to the NJPSAC, she is on the advisory committees for the Center for Hope and Safety and for the Bergen Community College Law Enforcement and Homeland Security group.
Accreditation Specialist
Melissa Bennett
Melissa Bennett boasts a diverse and rich history within the sphere of law enforcement and security. Serving as a Special Law Enforcement Officer with the Lakehurst Police Department in Ocean County, New Jersey, since July 2015, she has been an integral asset to the team, serving as the department's Accreditation Manager. This position demands a deep understanding of protocols, keen attention to detail, and a steadfast dedication to ensuring that the department consistently meets and exceeds accreditation standards. Beyond her role as Accreditation Manager,, Melissa has taken on the responsibility of being a CRP/AED Instructor. Additionally, Melissa employed as an Assistant Security Shift Manager at one of the largest casinos in Atlantic City. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Stockton University and is due to graduate with her Masters of Hospitality Administration from University of Nevada, Las Vegas in December 2023.
Accreditation Specialist
John Bobik
John Bobik brings more than 30 years of law enforcement experience to Aspirant Consulting Group, with a career grounded in operational leadership, training, and accreditation management. He began his career in 1991 with the Cape May Police Department as a seasonal officer while attending college and went on to serve in full-time roles with both West Cape May and Cape May Police Departments, building a strong foundation in patrol and community-based policing early in his career. Throughout his career, John served in progressively responsible leadership roles, rising through the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and ultimately Captain prior to his retirement in March 2026. His leadership experience includes assignments as Patrol Supervisor, Operations Commander, Administrative Commander, and Internal Affairs Supervisor, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of both field operations and executive-level decision-making. John has extensive experience in accreditation, having served as his agency’s Accreditation Manager and successfully leading the department through initial accreditation and three subsequent re-accreditation cycles. His hands-on experience managing compliance, documentation, and assessment preparation gives him a practical, working knowledge of how accreditation standards are applied within an operational environment. In addition to accreditation, John has played a significant role in training and professional development. He has instructed both recruits and in-service personnel across a wide range of topics, including defensive tactics, firearms, radar operation, handcuffing, baton use, bicycle patrol, and domestic violence response. His commitment to training reflects a career-long focus on officer readiness, safety, and professionalism. John also served in specialized county assignments, including the Fatal Accident Team and Regional SWAT Team, further expanding his experience in high-risk operations and interagency coordination. His background reflects a balanced career that integrates operational expertise, training, and administrative leadership. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Justice from the State University of New York at Oswego and an Associate in Applied Science in Criminal Justice from SUNY Broome Community College.
Accreditation Specialist
Raymond A. Cogan III
Raymond A. Cogan III brings more than 26 years of distinguished law enforcement experience to Aspirant Consulting Group, with a career defined by leadership, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to accreditation and policy excellence. He retired from the Winslow Township Police Department after serving in a wide range of supervisory, investigative, and administrative roles that provide him with a comprehensive understanding of modern policing operations. Throughout his career, Ray served as the department’s Accreditation Manager and Policy Writer, where he was responsible for guiding the agency through accreditation requirements, maintaining compliance, and developing legally sound, operationally practical policies. His leadership experience includes assignments as Criminal Investigation Unit Commander, Patrol Lieutenant, Detective Sergeant, Administrative Sergeant, and DEA Task Force Officer, giving him broad exposure to both day-to-day operations and long-term organizational planning. Ray is recognized for his strategic approach, attention to detail, and ability to translate accreditation standards into workable practices that support officer effectiveness and organizational accountability. His experience working with interagency partners, local government leadership, and community stakeholders allows him to support agencies with both technical compliance and practical implementation. He holds degrees from Rowan University and Rowan College of South Jersey, is Incident Command System (ICS) certified, and continues to bring a steady, methodical perspective to accreditation and policy work. At Aspirant Consulting Group, Ray supports agencies across New Jersey and beyond, helping departments strengthen compliance while remaining operationally grounded and mission focused.
Accreditation Specialist
James Krizek
James Krizek brings more than 25 years of law-enforcement experience to Aspirant Consulting Group, with a career defined by operational leadership, accreditation management, and organizational oversight. He has served with the Fair Lawn Police Department since 2000, holding a wide range of patrol, supervisory, and administrative assignments that provide him with a comprehensive understanding of both day-to-day operations and executive-level responsibilities. Throughout his career, Jim has served in progressively responsible leadership roles, including Patrol Squad Supervisor, Patrol Squad Commander, and Administrative Lieutenant. His experience spans patrol operations, supervision, internal affairs, training oversight, and executive administration, giving him a balanced perspective on how policy, accreditation, and operational realities intersect within a functioning police department. Jim has extensive accreditation experience, having served as his agency’s Accreditation Manager and later as an accreditation assessor for the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Law Enforcement Accreditation Program. In that role, he completed more than 50 accreditation assessments, developing a strong assessor-level understanding of standards interpretation, documentation, and on-site evaluation expectations. This dual perspective allows him to help agencies prepare for accreditation in a manner that is both compliant and operationally practical. In addition to accreditation, Jim has overseen critical operational units and programs, including community policing, traffic safety, communications, field training, and internal accountability functions. His background includes long-term service with the Bergen County Rapid Deployment Force, where he held leadership assignments supporting large-scale operations and coordinated responses. Jim is a graduate of multiple executive and command-level leadership programs, including the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Command and Leadership Academy, the FBI LEEDA Leadership Trilogy, and advanced leadership courses through the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice and Penn State’s Justice and Safety Institute. He also holds the designation of Accredited Command Executive. At Aspirant Consulting Group, Jim supports agencies across New Jersey and beyond with accreditation consulting and compliance support, bringing a steady, methodical approach grounded in both agency leadership and assessor experience. His work focuses on helping departments meet accreditation standards while remaining operationally sound, accountable, and mission focused.
Our Fire Services Team:
Excellence in Fire Safety and Response
Managing Consultant
Charles "Chas" McGarvey, Sr.
Charles "Chas" McGarvey, Sr. is a well-respected figure in the fire service community in Pennsylvania. He was appointed by Governor Wolf to serve as the Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner. In this role, he oversaw the state's fire service and with PEMA, the state's emergency management operations, working to ensure the safety and preparedness of Pennsylvania's communities. Prior to his appointment as State Fire Commissioner, McGarvey served as the Chief Fire Officer/Fire Marshal for Lower Merion Township. He brought his extensive experience and expertise to bear in this position, working to develop and implement effective fire prevention and suppression strategies for the township. McGarvey is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer Program at the National Fire Academy, which is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious programs of its kind. He also holds the Chief Fire Officer Designation (CFO) from the Commission on Professional Credentialing at the Center for Public Safety Excellence, as well as the MIFireE designation from the Institution of Fire Engineers, United States of America Branch. Throughout his career, McGarvey has been actively involved in a number of professional organizations and initiatives. He served on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Senate Resolution 6 Commission as the Government Support Subcommittee Chair, working to develop strategies to support the state's volunteer fire service. He has also served on the International Association of Fire Chiefs, EFO Section Board of Directors, and the Main Line Chamber Foundation Board of Directors. Overall, McGarvey's extensive experience and dedication to the fire service have earned him a reputation as a respected leader.
Managing Consultant
Chris Murtaugh
Chris Murtaugh, a distinguished veteran with 20 years of service in the Philadelphia Fire Department, currently holds the position of Captain at Engine E41 in West Philadelphia. Throughout Chris' tenure, he has navigated a multifaceted career path, starting as a firefighter and later ascending to the role of Lieutenant at Squad 72 within the Special Operations division. Notably, Chris served as a Lieutenant in the Hazardous Materials Administrative Unit, where he excelled as a Training Officer. Beyond local service, Chris made impactful contributions as a valued member of Pennsylvania Task Force 1 and the Pennsylvania USAR Team, demonstrating a commitment to broader emergency response initiatives. His expertise and dedication are evident in his active participation in several Joint Hazard Assessment Teams for major events, including the Papal visit at the World Meeting of Families, the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Philadelphia, and support provided during multiple visits by Presidents and dignitaries. Chris' expertise extends beyond fundamental firefighting skills, encompassing an array of specialized training crucial to special operations and Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) platforms. His comprehensive skill set includes valued experience in rope rescue, high-angle rescue techniques, trench collapse rescues, swift water operations, building collapse scenarios, hazardous materials management, and confined space rescues. In addition to his fire service training, Chris is a graduate of the Restaurant School of Philadelphia. Chris Murtaugh's unwavering commitment to continuous learning and the acquisition of advanced skills underscores his dedication to upholding the highest standards of safety and preparedness in public safety.
Managing Consultant
Shayna Hurst
Shayna Hurst brings more than a decade of public safety experience across law enforcement, data analytics, and risk management within a nationally accredited fire department. She currently serves as the Risk Management Officer for the Overland Park Fire Department in Overland Park, where she also holds the role of Department Accreditation Manager. In this capacity, Shayna chairs the Chief’s Commission on Standards, Compliance, and Accreditation and oversees the department’s accreditation program in alignment with Center for Public Safety Excellence standards. She successfully led the department through re-accreditation in 2023 and authored a comprehensive Standards of Cover document as part of that effort. Throughout her tenure with the department, Shayna has held roles that extend beyond traditional risk management functions. She previously served as the department’s Data Analyst, where she developed and implemented data-driven strategies, built GIS-based visualizations, and created operational dashboards to support performance tracking and organizational decision-making. In addition to her departmental responsibilities, she serves as Chair of the City’s Safety Council Committee and as the back-up Emergency Manager, contributing to broader municipal safety and preparedness efforts. Shayna began her career in public safety as a police officer, gaining frontline experience that continues to inform her work in accreditation, policy development, training, and risk management. Her background across operations and administration provides a well-rounded perspective that supports practical and sustainable solutions for public safety agencies. Shayna is nearing completion of her Doctor of Business Administration in Strategic Leadership at Liberty University. She holds a Master of Science in Analytics from Creighton University and a Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies from Pittsburg State University. She is also a certified Incident Safety Officer, Traffic Incident Safety Management Trainer, and Peer Assessor, and is proficient in a wide range of analytical tools, including Power BI, Tableau, GIS, and Python.
Training and Instruction Team
Law Enforcement Training Director
Dan Razzette
Dan Razzette is an experienced police officer with the Lower Merion Township Police Department, having begun his service in 2008. Throughout his career, Officer Razzette has been integral to various divisions within the department, including Patrol, Special Operations, Highway Enforcement Team, Emergency Response Team, and Training Unit. His career began in patrol, where over nine years, he developed a wide-ranging skill set crucial for day-to-day police work; receiving training as an advanced crisis intervention specialist, breath test operator, SFST practitioner, ARIDE Officer, Physical fitness coordinator, Motorcycle Officer, Less lethal munitions instructor, in-house Taser instructor, De-escalation/aggressive behavior instructor, OC instructor, expandable baton instructor, Field Training Officer, and handcuffing instructor. He was selected to join the Montgomery County Major Incident Response Team in 2010. In 2013 he joined his department’s Emergency Response Team where he currently holds the position of assistant team leader. In 2019 Dan joined his department’s Special Operations Unit as a bicycle Officer and later joined the Highway Enforcement Team. In 2022 Dan was appointed as one of the two full-time instructors at his 136 person department. He holds additional instructor-level certifications in firearms, patrol rifle, EVOC, Active Shooter, Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC), and de-escalation. Officer Razzette holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Lock Haven University. His diverse experience, coupled with his educational background, positions him as a knowledgeable and skilled professional in law enforcement training and operations.
Instructor - Leadership and Operational Readiness
Patrick Dolly
Sergeant Patrick Dolly is a law enforcement training professional with extensive experience in supervision, curriculum development, and policy implementation across both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Sergeant Dolly currently serves as a police sergeant with the Delaware River Port Authority Police Department, a bi-state transportation and infrastructure law enforcement agency serving the region. Throughout his career, he has held a range of operational, supervisory, training, and administrative assignments, including patrol supervision, training program management, and policy development. He has significant experience in training design and curriculum development and led the creation and implementation of the department’s Field Training Program for both entry-level officers and newly promoted supervisors. His professional responsibilities have also included conducting pre-employment background investigations, participating in use-of-force reviews, and developing and delivering agency policy and training initiatives. Sergeant Dolly is a certified law enforcement instructor in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey and provides instruction to sworn personnel, supervisors, and police recruits. He holds instructor-level certifications across multiple disciplines and regularly teaches at both the academy and in-service levels. In addition to his agency role, Sergeant Dolly serves as a faculty member with a command-level leadership academy and as a staff instructor at police academies in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. His experience working with officers at every stage of their careers supports Aspirant Consulting Group’s commitment to delivering practical, defensible training grounded in operational reality. Sergeant Dolly holds a Master of Science in Justice Administration and a Bachelor of Criminal Justice from Tiffin University.
Instructor – Crisis and Strategic Communications
Matt Petrillo
Matt Petrillo is a public safety communications professional with more than a decade of experience in journalism and crisis messaging. He spent over ten years as a television news reporter, including with CBS News Philadelphia, covering breaking news, crime, public safety, and major incidents across the region. Matt currently serves as the Director of Communications for Temple University’s Department of Public Safety, where he leads strategic messaging related to campus safety, emergency response, and community trust. In this role, he works closely with public safety leadership during both routine operations and critical incidents to ensure timely, accurate, and transparent communication with internal and external stakeholders. He specializes in crisis communications, law enforcement public relations, and high-stakes messaging, with a focus on how early communication decisions shape public perception, media narratives, and long-term organizational credibility. Matt brings a journalist’s perspective to his instructional work, helping public safety leaders understand how information is received, framed, and amplified in real-time environments. His background combines newsroom experience with public safety leadership support, positioning him to train agencies on communicating effectively under pressure while maintaining trust, accountability, and organizational integrity.
Instructor – Leadership and Officer Wellness
Heidi A. Ramsey
Heidi Ramsey is a seasoned law enforcement professional and leadership instructor with more than two decades of experience in public safety operations, leadership development, and personnel management. She retired from the Ohio State Highway Patrol after 23 years of service, where she held a variety of operational and administrative assignments, including roles in training, labor relations, legal services, and human resources. During her tenure, Heidi developed several leadership and wellness-focused training programs, including SIGNAL, a promotional preparation course for aspiring supervisors, the Public Safety Leadership Academy, a multi-week leadership program for mid-level supervisors, and Ohio ASSIST, a post-critical incident seminar designed to support first responders following traumatic events. Heidi currently serves as an instructor at the FBI National Academy, where she delivers training to law enforcement executives from across the country and around the world. Her primary course of instruction, Leading At-Risk Employees, focuses on equipping supervisors with the tools to identify, manage, and support personnel experiencing challenges related to stress, trauma, substance use, and other risk factors that impact performance and well-being. She specializes in leadership development, officer wellness, and personnel risk management, with a focus on helping agencies address complex workforce issues while maintaining accountability, performance, and organizational stability. Heidi brings a practical, experience-driven approach to her instruction, grounded in real-world leadership challenges and informed by her background in both operations and organizational support functions. Her work centers on building resilient leaders, strengthening supervisory decision-making, and helping agencies proactively manage at-risk employees in a way that supports both the individual and the organization.
Instructor – Leadership Development
Mark T. Williams
Sergeant Mark T. Williams is a law enforcement supervisor and leadership development instructor with more than twenty years of operational experience in public safety. He currently serves as a Patrol Sergeant with the Whitemarsh Township Police Department, where he supervises multi-shift operations, oversees complex investigations, and manages operational coordination across patrol, communications, and administrative functions. Throughout his career, he has held assignments including Crisis Negotiator, Montgomery County Drug Task Force member, De-escalation Instructor, TASER Instructor, and Field Training Officer. In addition to his agency role, Sergeant Williams serves as an adjunct professor at Chestnut Hill College and as an instructor at the Temple University Police Academy. He develops and delivers curriculum focused on critical issues in policing, supervision, ethical decision-making, and operational leadership. His instructional work bridges real-world field experience with structured leadership development. Sergeant Williams is a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command and is a Doctoral Candidate in Public Administration at West Chester University. His academic background in organizational leadership and governance strengthens his work developing evidence-based training programs for frontline supervisors and command staff. At Aspirant Consulting Group, he focuses on leadership development programming, supervisory training, and operational readiness initiatives designed to support agencies in building ethical, accountable, and resilient leadership cultures.
Our Specialized Consultants:
Expertise Across the Spectrum
IT Management and Technology Consultant
Jake Galloway
Jake Galloway is a Technology & Database Specialist with the Lower Merion Township Police Department. He serves as the primary point of contact for all Police related technology, ranging from in-car MDT’s and modems to PSB infrastructure and endpoints, working coherently with the Township IT department. As a graduate of Drexel University, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree with a concentration in server technology. With a strong belief in lifelong learning, Jake has also earned numerous certifications including ITIL, MCSE, and is actively pursuing a CySA+ certification. With a focus on Information Technology in the public service sector, Jake has also completed a Cybersecurity for Local Law Enforcement program through the University of Louisville. Having worked in a range of IT environments, Jake has a proficient understanding of core IT systems (AD/Azure/m365/AWS/Networking) to Law Enforcement Reporting Systems (RMS), Body Worn and Vehicle Mounted Camera Systems, and various industry-specific programs with an emphasis on the full-service lifecycle from strategy and design to operation and continual service improvement.