E4. Confirmations for Firefighter Paramedics- Chris Albrecht and Will Watson_EE'rry CIF'
KALISPELL FIRE DEPARTMENT
Dan Pearce — Fire Chief Adftk PO Box 1997
Jessica Kinzer Assistant Chief 312 First Avenue East
Cec Lee — Fire Secretary Kalispell, Montana 59901
Phone: (406) 758-7760
FAX: (406) 758-7777
REPORT TO: Doug Russell, City Manager
FROM: Daniel Pearce, Fire Chief
SUBJECT: Firefighter/Paramedic Confirmations for the following Firefighter-
Paramedics- Chris Albrecht and Will Watson.
MEETING DATE: October 7, 2024
BACKGROUND: Chris Albrecht and Will Watson are being presented for confirmation as
Firefighter/Paramedics for the Kalispell Fire Department. Both have successfully completed their
one-year probationary period and all appointment requirements as of September 11, 2024.
BACKGROUNDS:
Chris Albrecht- Chris was born and raised in north Texas but his heart has always been in the
mountains. Chris married his high-school sweetheart, and they have three amazing boys. He began
his Fire/EMS career 16 years ago and after much prayer and consideration they decided to take a
leap of faith and move to Montana. Chris and his family love to call the Flathead their home and is
very excited to officially be a part of the Kalispell Fire Department!
Will Watson- Will is a 4th generation Montanan, who grew up in Missoula MT. Will said he was
blessed with an amazing family and a father that served 27 years at Missoula City Fire Department,
not knowing that one day he would follow in his footsteps. After college in Missoula and some time
as a culinary chef, he said he woke up one day and found himself in front of the South Kalispell
volunteer fire department. In the past few short years, Will attended EMT school and became a full
time employee at Evergreen Fire Rescue. Shortly thereafter he decided to start paramedic school and
was offered a position at Kalispell City Fire Department after finishing the medic program at FVCC.
Will stated, "Kalispell has become a special place in my heart, and I am honored to serve for the
years to come."
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that Council confirm Firefighter/Paramedics Chris
Albrecht and Will Watson to the Kalispell Fire Department.
"Protecting our conununity with the highest level of professionalism. "