Get to know the dedicated leaders and firefighters who form the backbone of St. Paul's Fire District, each bringing a wealth of experience and commitment to serving our community.
Chief Johnson brings over 25 years of invaluable experience to our team, having dedicated his entire career to the St. Paul's Fire District. When off duty, he cherishes moments with his family, indulges in cruising, and embraces the great outdoors.
Assistant Chief J. Garvin boasts 18 years of firefighting expertise in the St. Paul's Fire District. When not on duty, he prioritizes family time, tends to his land, and enjoys the serenity of nature.
With an impressive 37-year tenure in the fire service, Battalion Chief Hough transitioned to St. Paul's Fire District after a brief stint at St. John's Fire District. His dedication has been unwavering, evident in his valuable contributions. Off duty, he relishes family moments, explores new destinations, and immerses himself in outdoor adventures.
Battalion Chief D. Garvin holds the distinction of being our most senior employee, boasting an impressive 42-year tenure within the St. Paul's Fire District. He has held various roles, including Fire Chief, showcasing his depth of experience and commitment. Off duty, he finds solace in caring for his animals and embracing the natural world through hunting.
Battalion Chief Riley's 20 years of firefighting experience have been solely dedicated to the St. Paul's Fire District. Beyond his duties, he treasures quality time with his family, finds joy in riding his Harley Davidson, and indulges in outdoor pursuits like hunting.
Chief Kurtz brings 16 years of experience to our training division, with a background that includes service in both St. Paul's Fire District and St. John's Fire District, as well as overseas during wartime. During his downtime, he prioritizes family, manages his graphics shop, and embraces outdoor activities.
Battalion Chief Ackerman has been with the SPFD for 25 years. He also currently serves as the Fire Marshal. Battalion Chief Wayne Ackerman brings a career full of knowledge to the fire district. In his spare time, you can find him hunting, caring for land, spending time with family, or managing his personal business.
Get to know the dedicated leaders and firefighters who form the backbone of St. Paul's Fire District, each bringing a wealth of experience and commitment to serving our community.
Chief Johnson brings over 25 years of invaluable experience to our team, having dedicated his entire career to the St. Paul's Fire District. When off duty, he cherishes moments with his family, indulges in cruising, and embraces the great outdoors.
Assistant Chief J. Garvin boasts 18 years of firefighting expertise in the St. Paul's Fire District. When not on duty, he prioritizes family time, tends to his land, and enjoys the serenity of nature.
With an impressive 37-year tenure in the fire service, Battalion Chief Hough transitioned to St. Paul's Fire District after a brief stint at St. John's Fire District. His dedication has been unwavering, evident in his valuable contributions. Off duty, he relishes family moments, explores new destinations, and immerses himself in outdoor adventures.
Battalion Chief D. Garvin holds the distinction of being our most senior employee, boasting an impressive 42-year tenure within the St. Paul's Fire District. He has held various roles, including Fire Chief, showcasing his depth of experience and commitment. Off duty, he finds solace in caring for his animals and embracing the natural world through hunting.
Battalion Chief Riley's 20 years of firefighting experience have been solely dedicated to the St. Paul's Fire District. Beyond his duties, he treasures quality time with his family, finds joy in riding his Harley Davidson, and indulges in outdoor pursuits like hunting.
Chief Kurtz brings 16 years of experience to our training division, with a background that includes service in both St. Paul's Fire District and St. John's Fire District, as well as overseas during wartime. During his downtime, he prioritizes family, manages his graphics shop, and embraces outdoor activities.
Battalion Chief Ackerman has been with the SPFD for 25 years. He also currently serves as the Fire Marshal. Battalion Chief Wayne Ackerman brings a career full of knowledge to the fire district. In his spare time, you can find him hunting, caring for land, spending time with family, or managing his personal business.
James Ackerman is a dedicated fire service leader and community organizer with over 16 years of service with the St. Paul’s Fire District. As a Captain at Station 7, he played a key role in daily operations and the continued development of the department’s Marine Team. With extensive experience in training, leadership, and emergency response, he is committed to ensuring personnel are prepared to perform at the highest level. Outside of the fire service, James is deeply involved in his community, helping organize youth baseball programs and supporting local initiatives. In his free time, he enjoys hunting with his kids, riding his motorcycle, and spending quality time with his family. Known for his hands-on leadership style and strong sense of teamwork, he strives to make a lasting impact through mentorship, service, and dedication to those around him.
