St. John's Fire District

4 days ago

2025 Engineer of the Year - Rutledge Schock

This year’s recipient has been a driving force behind the success of our Rescue Company from the very beginning. He has played a role in every stage of its development—helping renovate our current apparatus, investing countless hours into the design and build‑out of the new rescue truck, and even traveling to Appleton, Wisconsin for the RS701 Pre‑Construction meetings to provide valuable insight and perspective. His fingerprints are on nearly every advancement this company has made.

His work ethic is unmatched. He routinely arrives an hour early—not because it’s required, but because he wants to ensure the rig is ready, the crew is supported, and the off‑going shift can get home to their families without stress. He consistently places the district first, speaks positively about the organization, and represents us with pride both inside the station and in the community.

Within his role, he has exceeded every expectation. He is honest, humble, dependable, and the type of person people naturally look to for guidance. His peers seek his advice. His officers trust his judgment. His leadership style—quiet, steady, and sincere—has earned him deep respect across the department.

This individual embodies what we hope for in a fire service professional: dedication without ego, commitment without hesitation, and a level of craftsmanship and care that strengthens the entire organization. His contributions this past year—and every year—have been extraordinary, and this recognition is well deserved.

It is the honor of Fire Chief Ryan Kunitzer to award the 2025 Engineer of the Year to Rutledge Schock. ... See MoreSee Less

St. John's Fire District

1 week ago

2025 Firefighter of the Year - Noah Schairer

Firefighter Noah Schairer has made a remarkably positive impact across our department. From the moment he joined us, he demonstrated a strong work ethic, a humble approach to learning, and a genuine investment in both his own growth and the success of his crew. Though early in his career, Noah has consistently performed at a level well beyond his experience, showing maturity, professionalism, and a readiness to step up whenever needed.

One of his standout accomplishments this year was his attendance at the Nozzle Forward conference. Rather than simply checking a box, Noah immersed himself in advanced engine company operations and came back energized—ready to share the techniques, ideas, and skills he gained. He took the initiative to teach others, strengthening our crews and directly improving our operational performance. That willingness to learn and then elevate others is exactly the type of leadership that strengthens a fire service organization.

Firefighter Schairer represents the future of the fire service—hardworking, team‑oriented, and deeply committed to making a positive impact. There is no question that he has earned the respect of those around him, and there is no question that he has earned this moment.

It is the honor of Fire Chief Ryan Kunitzer to present the 2025 Firefighter of the Year Award to Firefighter Noah Schairer. ... See MoreSee Less

St. John's Fire District

1 week ago

We spent the morning with Bright Oak PreSchool on Johns Island this morning! What a great group! #thedistrict ... See MoreSee Less