Volunteer Spotlight: Kenneth Shultz

Name: Kenneth Shultz
Title: Fire Chief
Department Name: Helmet Peak Fire Department
Location: Sahuarita, AZ

Why are you an NVFC member?
I am the fire chief of an all-volunteer department. We have obtained countless information and training from the NVFC web site.

What is your occupation?
Fire Chief/Paramedic

Why are you a volunteer firefighter, EMT, or rescue provider?
I had retired from a career fire department and the fire chief for the HPFD was stepping down after 22 years. He is a retired career firefighter from the same department I retired from. He contacted me to let me know of his departure and wondered if I would apply. After competing against two other candidates I was offered the position by the fire board. I do it for the love and passion of the work, the firefighters, and the customers we protect. Coming from a paid career department to an all-volunteer department was a huge transformation, but I have come to learn that the dedication and pride of the volunteers far surpasses those of the paid firefighters.

What year did you join the fire or emergency services?  
1979

What are your memorable moments as a firefighter or EMS provider?
The most memorable moments have to be those where I made a significant impact on someone’s life. Whether it was a patient or a family member, if I in some small way made them feel good or helped the situation, then my work was done. As a fire service instructor I teach Firefighter 1 and 2 academies at our department and for a local community college. If I had an influence on a recruit that helped them in the fire service career path, then I have done by job. It’s all about helping each other and being nice.

What contributions have you (and your department) made in your community?
We have applied for many different grants. Some we have received and some were denied. However, [with] the ones we received we have been able to purchase much needed fire and EMS equipment to better my firefighters to help our customers who reside in our area or are just passing through.

Interested in serving your community? Find volunteer fire service opportunities at www.MakeMeAFirefighter.org.