District welcomes new firefighters

The Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District is introducing two new career firefighters with a history of service to the Sisters community. Rachelle Otasu and Jack Wales both served as volunteers with the District, and now have been hired as full-time firefighters.

Otasu started her career with the District as an EMS volunteer in June 2016. She was selected for the District's resident volunteer program in September 2016, and was promoted to resident volunteer lieutenant. Rachelle completed a bachelor's degree in fire service administration in 2020 while serving the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District. She completed the resident volunteer program, and was hired as a firefighter paramedic at Valley Center Fire District and later the City of Vista (California) Fire Department. When the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District had an opening Otasu quickly applied, and has now returned to Sisters.

Jack Wales joined the Fire District in 2019 as a volunteer firefighter. He volunteered with the District during the next four years while he completed his paramedic training. Wales is in the process of completing his state paramedic testing and certification at this time. He brings several years of firefighting experience to the Fire District, and the District states that his experience and connection to the Sisters community will be a great asset.

Fire Chief Roger Johnson said, "Volunteering is a great way to begin a career in the fire service. Both Rachelle and Jack started their careers as volunteer firefighters with the District and we are honored to have them in their new role."

The Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District has several volunteer opportunities available for area residents, including firefighting, EMTs, and Fire Corps volunteers. For information, contact Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District at 541-549-0771.