What makes someone leave the warmth of the Gulf Coast to lead a fire department in Michigan? For Russell Schoultz, Walker's new Fire Chief, it was the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in a community that immediately felt like home.
Chief Schoultz brings an impressive 34-year public safety career to Walker, including extensive experience with hurricane response, disaster management, and leading statewide operations in Louisiana. But it's his fresh perspective on community safety that stands out most in this candid conversation. "The only thing I have learned in 34 years is how much I don't know," he reflects, demonstrating the humility that guides his leadership approach.
Throughout our discussion, Schoultz shares powerful insights drawn from decades on the frontlines. Perhaps most sobering is his observation that in his extensive career responding to fatal fires, he's "yet to be on a fatal fire that had a working smoke detector where the people were not disabled." This stark reality drives his passion for community risk reduction – shifting focus from merely responding to emergencies to preventing them altogether.
The conversation reveals ambitious plans for Walker's fire service, including expanded staffing with career firefighters to support the dedicated paid-on-call members, community CPR training initiatives, and innovative approaches to disaster preparedness. Schoultz speaks with genuine admiration about Walker's existing firefighters and the seamless collaboration between city departments that ensures public safety.
Whether you're curious about emergency services, considering a career in firefighting, or simply want to understand how our community stays protected, this conversation offers valuable perspective from someone who's seen it all. Check out the City of Walker Fire Department's social media or visit walkercity.com/fire to learn more about fire safety programs and opportunities to serve.