Where are you from and how did you come to Jackson? I grew up ranching in the Ozarks of Southern Missouri. I started working in Jackson Hole in 2004 as a civil engineer doing highway construction projects.

What do you do for work? I am a civil engineer managing transportation projects mostly in Grand Teton National Park. I’m also the fifth generation to raise cattle on a ranch that has been a part of my family for over 100 years. 

What do you do in your free time? My wife and I enjoy hiking, hunting and fishing. Most of our “vacations” are spent back in the Ozarks working cattle. 

How long have you been a part of JH Fire/EMS? I joined the Moran Fire Department (Station 4) in 2004.

What made you want to join? I have always found fire interesting and I’ve wanted to be a firefighter for as long as I can remember. I worked for the US Forest Service in Colorado while I was in college as a Trail Crew Boss and fighting wildland fires. It was a natural progression when I graduated and was stationed in Grand Teton National Park. My construction office is next door to Station 4. 

What is your role in the department? I am one of two Captains at Station 4 in Moran. 

What are your current certs? Fire Officer 1, Fire Instructor 1, ADO, FF2, FF1, and EMR.

What are your future goals in the department? I want to build and retain our members at Station 4 in order to always be able to serve our community in times of need. 

Favorite part of volunteering so far? I love my firefighting family at Station 4, the sense of pride I get from being a firefighter, and the opportunity to serve others and give back to this community. 

Most challenging? As much as I love Jackson Hole Fire/EMS, it is always a challenge to make the time necessary while still working a full time job in construction and maintaining a family cattle operation.

What advice would you give new recruits? Be committed and work hard. The rewards are great and the friendships will last a lifetime. 

What is the most valuable trait for someone to have in this line of work? A strong sense of duty, loyalty, commitment and work ethic.  

Who is your mentor in the department? Within the department there are several. Probably the most notable is Capt. Mack McFarland. He brings immense experience and a practical approach while maintaining a high level of professionalism.