DIDSBURY -- The Town of Didsbury has announced the recent appointment of three deputy chiefs for the Didsbury Fire Department (DFD): Kyle Leeson, Troy Schwandt and Mac Southgate.
Under the direction of protective services manager and acting fire chief Deron Reimer, the department has seen a number of positive changes over the past several months, according to CAO Harold Northcott.
Those changes included increasing membership to 35 active members; reviewing and developing internal policies and procedures; implementing a code of conduct for all members; and assisting local community groups during the season.
"All three deputy chiefs bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to their positions," Northcott said in a press release. "Their training and leadership will bring the department forward in ways that will keep not only the citizens of this community safe but also the membership of the Didsbury Fire Department."
Kyle Leeson joined the Didsbury Fire Department at the age of 18 and has worked as the department's training officer and most recently as fire prevention officer. He said he was inspired to join the fire department after seeing his father's work as firefighter himself.
"I was raised on the family farm just north of Didsbury where I would watch my father, a member of the Olds Fire Department, respond to emergencies at all hours of the day," said Leeson. "Growing up around the fire service I knew it would be my passion as well."
In the fall of 2013, Leeson was accepted into the Calgary Fire Department and has spent the last two years specializing in aircraft rescue and firefighting at the Calgary International Airport.
"My time spent mentoring and training new members and fire cadets has been one of my favourite aspects of this department," he said. "As deputy chief in charge of fire prevention, I will put forward my knowledge and dedication to keeping our community and neighbourhoods safe."
Troy Schwandt was raised in Didsbury. His family tree dates back many generations in the Didsbury area. He joined the DFD after graduating high school in 2003, where, he says, he learned most of all of his desire to be a firefighter.
"Helping your community and people in their time of need, it's challenging at times but very fulfilling," said Schwandt. "After getting a feel for the job I was fortunate enough to be hired by the Calgary Fire Department in 2007."
Schwandt stepped away from the Didsbury Fire Department when his kids were younger but felt the call once again and recently rejoined.
"This past September, seeing the department could use some experienced leadership, and with all my kids now in school, I decided it was time to rejoin," he said. "I'm a hockey coach, dance dad, and I love being physically active."
Schwandt also enjoys outdoor activities such as camping and fishing, as well as spending time with friends and family.
Mac Southgate joined the Didsbury Fire Department in 2009, shortly after turning 18.
"During my time with the department I have had the privilege of instructing our members and helping our training officers for several years," said Southgate. "In my professional career, I started in emergency services as a medic in the oilsands, and quickly transitioned over to technical rescue disciplines."
Southgate works as a firefighter for an oilsands project in northern Alberta.
He is looking forward to his position as deputy fire chief in charge of operations and training.
"It will be my responsibility to make sure our firefighters are properly equipped, trained and ready to serve our community and its people," he said.
