A second opportunity: Former IFFD firefighter sworn in as the department’s newest fire chief
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IDAHO FALLS — A former firefighter and resident of Idaho Falls has returned after being sworn in as the Idaho Falls Fire Department’s newest fire chief Thursday evening.
Johna Olson previously served in IFFD from 2007 to 2021, during which he held various roles, from firefighter to battalion chief.
After moving away from Idaho Falls, Olson served as a volunteer firefighter with the Buckley Fire Department and later as an assistant fire chief. His most recent role was serving as deputy fire chief for the Grand Junction Fire Department.
Olson will take over for former IFFD Fire Chief Duane Nelson, who retired in October after serving for 28 years. While a search for a new fire chief was underway, Deputy Chief Paul Radford was interim fire chief.
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Idaho Falls Mayor Lisa Burtenshaw told EastIdahoNews.com that she was excited to see the experiences Olson has gained from his time away and to bring that knowledge to the IFFD.
“He has a vision of having community involvement that I was very impressed by,” Burtenshaw said. “His excitement for bringing the fire department to the community, some of his ideas about… to represent what it means to be a public safety department to the community.”
Olson spoke to the full council chamber, filled with family, local firefighters and elected officials, saying he believes those serving the IFFD are among the finest firefighters around.
“It is a great honor for me to return and have a second opportunity to serve alongside you,” Olson said.
The new fire chief also acknowledged the families in the room and the support they provide to the members of the IFFD. He said that many in the community may not know the sacrifices that are made to ensure the demands are met when called upon.
“I am dedicated to the fire service and to the brothers and sisters who make it what it is,” Olson said. “You are my second family, and I’m committed to being there for you. I believe in serving the people you love, and I love this community, and I love this department.”