Where are you from and how/why did you move to Jackson? Originally, I’m from St.Paul, Minnesota, and I moved out west for school at Colorado State University. Upon graduation, I made the move to Jackson for the skiing and never left. 

What do you do for work? Thankfully, I recently was hired full-time with the department. In addition to the fire department, I also work at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in the winters and have for the past 8 years now. In the summers, I work for HOLE landscaping.

How do you like to fill your free time? I fill what little free time I have playing rugby for the Moose, playing with my dogs, and spending as much time in the Winds with my wife as I can. 

When did you join the department? I started as a volunteer in 2019, so 4 years ago now.

What initially inspired you to join? I’ve been fascinated with fire since I was old enough to light a match. After the incredibly physically and mentally demanding seasons on Hotshot crews, I had to find a way to stay in a related field but dial back the intensity in favor of longevity. I’ve found that working at JH Fire/EMS seems to fill that void.   

Do you have future goals in the department? My future goals would include elevating my medical knowledge. Of course, I also want to find a way to further my wildland experience by detailing onto either one of my former crews for a roll or two.     

What would you say is the most valuable skill or trait to have in your job? I try to maintain a sense of humility and hunger for knowledge. I would also say that knowing when to shut up and listen can be the most helpful of traits.

What would you say you contribute most to the department? I think my culinary prowess is a net positive for the department. My wildland fire experience is certainly a step in the right direction for practical fire knowledge within the department as well.

Who would you say you most look up to? I believe there is something to be learned and knowledge to be gained from every person I interact with. I strive every day to be more like a combination of a few senior leaders within the department, those being Captain Carr, Captain Dunn, and Chance Abel. Intelligent, proficient, professional. A regret of mine is not being able to work with Captain Hazlett more, as I would have loved to learn from his vast knowledge and experience.