Meet Lieutenant Ethan Dade
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Where are you stationed?
I'm a roving Lieutenant on the "A" shift.
When did you start career?
April 7th, 2008
What still excites you about coming to work?
I value the opportunity to come in each day and collaborate with a highly motivated and professional team while responding to calls. The dynamic nature of the work keeps every day engaging, presenting new challenges and opportunities to grow.
What was the process of getting to this point in your career?
I began my career as a Firefighter/EMT at Station 11 before transferring to Station 8. After completing paramedic school, I served at Stations 2 and 7, eventually returning to Station 8 as a Firefighter/Paramedic assigned to the Heavy Urban Rescue Team (HURT). I later tested for promotion to Apparatus Engineer and, upon being promoted, was assigned to Stations 10 and 6, where I served as an AE/Paramedic. Following my promotion to Lieutenant, I transitioned to a roving assignment on the 'A' shift.
Where did you grow up, and did you have any prior history working in the fire service?
I grew up in Walworth, located in southeastern Wisconsin. During my senior year of high school, I participated in a work‑release program with the Walworth Fire Department, which gave me early exposure to the fire service, hands‑on training, and the opportunity to respond to calls while learning the profession. After graduating, I pursued an internship with the Fitchburg Fire Department, where I received extensive on‑the‑job training, lived in the firehouse for two years, and completed both fire and EMS certifications. During this time, I also earned an associate degree in Fire Protection Technician from Madison Area Technical College.
What do you enjoy doing when you're off duty?
I enjoy spending quality time with my wife and our two daughters. As a family, we love camping with friends and relatives, spending time outdoors, and staying active with the kids' activities. Personally, I appreciate any opportunity to be outside—whether it's hunting, golfing, or simply being active and enjoying time with family.
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