Hi, I’m Ryan Edmondson—an 18-year veteran of the fire service and a lifelong student of the craft. Currently, I serve as a Captain with the Alyeska Pipeline Fire and Rescue Department in Valdez, Alaska, and as a Firefighter with the West Lakes Fire Department. My path to the fire service started when I was just 13 years old, walking into a firehouse as a Junior Firefighter. That moment set the course for a career built on passion and service.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of serving in various roles. Before my current positions, I served as a Lieutenant with the Williston Fire Department in Williston, North Dakota, and as a Firefighter with the McCutchanville Fire Department in Evansville, Indiana, and the Chugiak Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company in Chugiak, Alaska. During my time in Williston, I also commanded the Regional Hazardous Materials Team and served as a Medic on the Regional SWAT Team. I’ve also worked as a Wildland Firefighter for the Alaska Department of Forestry, gaining invaluable experience in the field.
I hold an Associate’s degree in Fire Science and a Bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration, both from Columbia Southern University. I’m a former member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), and the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA). Although I’m no longer an active member, I’ve attended many conferences and seminars across the country to stay up to date on best practices. I also served as past president of IAFF Local 3743 in Williston, further strengthening my commitment to the fire service community.
Before joining the fire service, I served in the U.S. Army as a Combat Medic, stationed at Fort Richardson, Alaska. I completed two tours in Afghanistan in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and one deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq. My military experience continues to shape my leadership approach and fuels my dedication to serving others.
When I’m not writing or working in the fire service, you can find me enjoying the outdoors or spending quality time with my family. I’m deeply passionate about sharing my experiences and insights, both through my writing and my work in the fire service, and I hope to inspire others to embrace leadership, compassion, and growth in their own lives.
RC Edmondson Books 