Leadership in the fire service is not a position to be held, but a responsibility to be lived. For me, leadership is rooted in service to others, the pursuit of excellence, and the belief that everyone deserves to feel seen, valued, and empowered. I strive to lead with humility, fairness, and respect. Leadership means modeling the behaviors we hope to see in others, making decisions that benefit the whole team, and creating environments where others can thrive.
In May of 2025, I was promoted to Fire Captain, a role that now entrusts me with the development and culture of an entire firehouse that includes both an engine company and a paramedic ambulance. I am responsible for multiple officers and a diverse group of firefighters who each bring their own strengths and challenges to the table. As Captain, I view my most important job as making space for others to succeed and to build a culture of shared responsibility, professional accountability, and personal growth. I aim to cultivate a workplace where inclusion is the standard and where learning, vulnerability, and honest dialogue are not only allowed but encouraged.
The Milwaukee Fire Department continues to evolve. We are actively working to recruit individuals from diverse backgrounds who may have no prior fire service experience. When they arrive, they deserve a leader who is willing to do the hard work of educating and supporting them without bias or assumption. At the same time, I recognize that many of the challenges we face, from retention to physical and mental health, require the collective energy of leaders at all levels of the department. I believe that collaborative leadership, paired with a mission-oriented focus, can address these systemic issues and help us build a more resilient and responsive organization.