Meet Jeremy Scott, a man whose journey from England to Texas and finally to Hemlock, Michigan, is as unique as it is inspiring. Born to two U.S. Air Force parents serving overseas, Jeremy’s early years were spent in Texas with his mom, but every summer, he found himself in Michigan, at his grandparents’ homestead. It was these summers that fostered a deep connection to his family and the mitten state, a bond that would eventually lead him to make Michigan his permanent home.
Jeremy's path to Hemlock began during his freshman year of high school when he moved to Saginaw to live with his grandparents, attending Carrollton High School. Although the original plan was to stay only for that year, the sudden passing of his grandfather changed everything, and Jeremy decided to stay, graduating in 1999. His academic journey led him from Central Michigan University to Northwood University, but it was his co-op experience with Dow Chemical that set the course for his professional life. Starting as a senior in high school, Jeremy's co-op opened the door to a lasting relationship with Dow, where he has worked as a Legal Product Manager for the Legal Systems Services group for nearly 27 years.
In 2000, Jeremy answered a different kind of call: the call to serve his community as a firefighter. He began as a firefighter for Carrollton Township Fire and steadily worked his way up to lieutenant. The tragic events of September 11th, 2001, only strengthened his resolve to serve—running into danger when others are running out became his mission. After meeting the love of his life, Crystal, they decided to settle in Hemlock in 2009, drawn by both work opportunities and the strong school system for their children. Their son Dylan is heading into 3rd grade at K.C. Ling Elementary, Kyle is entering his senior year at Hemlock High School, and their daughter Ellie is thriving as a nail technician.
Jeremy's dedication to firefighting has only grown over the years. After moving to Hemlock, he joined the Richland Township Fire Department, where he became a lieutenant in 2013, assistant chief in 2014, and officially took on the role of fire chief in 2020. His commitment to his community is evident in his passion for recruiting more service-minded people. “We’re always looking for more firefighters,” he says. “It’s great community service, and some of the most rewarding things you’ll see is the humanity that emerges in a crisis…it gives me hope.”
With 27 years at Dow, 25 years in the fire service, and a blended family of six, Jeremy is a man who balances many roles, all with a deep sense of purpose. He’s quick to credit his wife, Crystal, for her incredible support. “My wife is amazing, and her job is so much harder than my own,” he says with utmost respect and a twinkle in his eye. “So the boys and I really try to spoil her.”
Jeremy Scott’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and love—for his family, his work, and the Hemlock community he now proudly calls home.