Graham Fire & Rescue Welcomes New Deputy Chief of Operations

[Graham, WA] – Graham Fire & Rescue has selected Chief Jennett Nielson as its new Deputy Chief of Operations, making history as the department’s first female Deputy Chief.

Nielson has served over 20 years with Central Pierce Fire & Rescue (CPFR), starting as a firefighter, and working her way up to Acting Battalion Chief, while also serving as the Interim Assistant Chief of the Information Technology Consortium. During her time at CPFR, Nielson has served on the Technical Rescue team, Auto Extrication team, Peer Support team, and has worked on numerous projects related to policy development, firefighter training, and officer development.

“I have a lot of enthusiasm and resolve that Chief Nielson is a perfect fit for our organization. She is a highly respected, people-centric leader,” said Fire Chief Oscar Espinosa. “Her style and values align with our organization and she is very capable of challenging and supporting me so I perform at my best as Fire Chief.”

Nielson has a passion for mentorship and helping others achieve successful careers in the fire service. In her spare time, she volunteers for various leadership camps, such as Camp Blaze, Women in Fire, and the Capital Metro Fire Girls Camp. She also enjoys participating in the LLS Firefighter Stairclimb, Relay for Life, and Muscular Dystrophy Association Fill the Boot campaigns.

“After serving 23 years in the fire service, I am honored to be taking on this new role where I can mentor and invest in personnel,” stated Nielson. “I couldn’t think of a higher honor in such a noble profession.”

Chief Nielson’s first day is February 1, 2022.