River Falls, WI – The City of River Falls has appointed Justin Wilson as its new chief of the River Falls Fire Department, effective May 19, 2025.

A longtime River Falls resident, Wilson has served as a volunteer firefighter with the RFFD since 2013. He most recently served as captain with the department, a position he’s held since 2019. 

“Having called River Falls home for the past 20 years, I've come to appreciate the wonderful community we have here. During my twelve years with the River Falls Fire Department, I've witnessed firsthand the unique bond and sense of family within our department,” Wilson said. “I'm eager to continue contributing to our department's leadership while working alongside our dedicated team to ensure the safety of our River Falls community.”

Wilson was part of a hiring process that included candidates from across the country. The River Falls Police and Fire Commission directed the hiring process and officially confirmed Wilson as the next Fire Chief on April 21.

As fire chief, Wilson is tasked with overseeing a department comprised of over 50 volunteer firefighters. He’ll work closely with City staff and will be instrumental in helping navigate the department through the upcoming $10 million investment in the fire station.

“We’re thrilled to have Justin serve as the next fire chief here with the City of River Falls,” said City Administrator Scot Simpson. “Justin knows this department well and has the respect of the fellow firefighters he has served alongside during his tenure with the River Falls Fire Department. I’m confident that he will be a great leader for our dedicated firefighters.” 

Wilson was named Firefighter of the Year in 2018, at which time, then-chief Scott Nelson noted Wilson’s leadership qualities and added that Wilson brought people together.

Prior to assuming the role as Fire Chief, Wilson worked as the Director of Professional Services at a software company based in Minneapolis. He earned an Associate of Arts and Sciences Degree in Fire Protection from Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton, Wis.

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