Ernie Nace

· Coordinated all aspects of the Swan Units fire management program

· Established partnerships with local fire agencies, collaborating on projects to enhance community safety and protect natural resources.

· Planned and executed critical training needs for the seasonal fire crew to allow for mentally and physically capable firefighters. · Provided leadership on and off the Fireline. Building resilient firefighters with the right mindset to make good safe decisions.

· Played a large part in Lake County training. First with CO-OP training for VFD’s, then played a key role in coordinating and managing our annual Lake County exercise. Dillon Academy course coordinator. Maintained IQS records

· Planned/Monitored/Prepped and help Execute prescribed fire on the unit, currently working towards RXB2

· Established safety standards and encouraged open communication regarding safety concerns. Planned specialized training and provided proper PPE to ensure team readiness.

· Responsible for fire budget: Managed vehicle maintenance, facility maintenance, invested in equipment and training supplies.

· Prioritized forest projects to optimize resource allocation and enhance time management.

Reduced human-caused fires on the Kalispell Unit, through targeted public awareness and education initiatives.

Collaborated with interagency partners to establish good working relationships to carry forward DNRC organizational goals and objectives toward the Cohesive Strategy.

Developed annual prevention plan program goals/objectives. Managed budgets,procedures and messaging.

Delivered fire-related presentations at public events. Forest health education for public events. Homeowner associations, school gatherings, workshops, parades, firewise events and obtained PIO qualification.

Responded quickly to meet public needs and resolve problems. emphasis on fire and forest health.

Started as an EFF in 2000 as a speedy(EFF) for the Kalispell Unit, I helped maintain the compound,wash hose and deliver lunches to firefighters, which sparked my interest to apply. I submitted my application in 2001, transitioning from seasonal support to a dedicated FF position. I began learning basic firefighting concepts and principles, policies and procedures and a new understanding of fire. Working up through leadership roles I embraced the team environment and really enjoyed the camaraderie and responsibility which encouraged me to progress into Crew Boss, Strike Team and Task Force roles. Here I quickly learned It's about your people first then the fire. Years on the fireline have made me very safety oriented and prone to managing risk so everyone can go home at night. Managing many ICT-4 fires over the years requires a lot of critical thinking, forethought and pre-planning. Time management, Documentation and Reports begin to take the front seat but are a necessity to keep the engine running and allows your team to focus on what they do best.