Chief Clay Yarbrough has served in public safety since 2004, beginning his career as a volunteer with the Newton County Fire Department. He was hired by Rockdale County Fire-Rescue in 2005. Over the years, he has developed extensive expertise in technical rescue operations and has spent much of his career involved with Special Operations. Chief Yarbrough holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting.

Chief Yarbrough has been an adjunct instructor with the Georgia Fire Academy for 16 years, specializing in crash rescue and extrication, technical rope rescue, confined space, trench, structural collapse, and rescue systems. Since 2021, he has also served as a technical rescue instructor with a private training organization.

As Training Chief, he oversees all aspects of firefighter training and professional development. Known for his commitment to excellence and his passion for sharing knowledge, Chief Yarbrough exemplifies the Axiom of Leadership: “Whatever it takes.”