Crested Butte Fire Protection District

15 hours ago

Meet Our Team: Engineer John Bielak

John Bielak joined Crested Butte Fire Protection District in 2023 as a lateral transfer to the rank of Engineer. He recently celebrated 25 years as a career firefighter, following service with Red, White & Blue Fire Protection District and Denver Fire Department.

A proud Colorado native, John comes from a family that homesteaded in Colorado five generations ago. He and his wife, Aime, share deep roots in the Gunnison Valley and are grateful to raise their children, Wyatt and Mia, here.

John attended Colorado Mountain College and Red Rocks Community College, where he earned a degree in Fire Science Technology. At CBFPD, he helps strengthen department readiness as a wildland team Engine Boss, acting Captain for operations, member of the apparatus specification committee, and Field Training Officer for new engineers. He also serves as president of the Crested Butte Fire EMS Foundation.

Outside the fire district, John enjoys hunting, fishing, skiing, mountain biking, and golf. He also coaches his children’s local hockey teams.

We’re proud to have John’s experience, dedication, and knowledge as part of the CBFPD team! ... See MoreSee Less

Crested Butte Fire Protection District

1 day ago

Training Highlight: Leadership Conference

CBFPD hosted a two-day leadership conference for our officers, acting officers, engine bosses, and aspiring leaders. The conference focused on developing the skills and perspective needed to lead effectively, support our crews, and make sound decisions in the fire service.

We were grateful to learn from Scott Burnette, a retired fire chief with extensive experience leading the Asheville Fire Department, and John Tippett, a retired fire chief and longtime fire service leader known for his work in firefighter safety and leadership. Thank you both for sharing your knowledge and experience with our team, and thank you to everyone who took part in investing in CBFPD’s future leaders. ... See MoreSee Less

Crested Butte Fire Protection District

5 days ago

Members of the Crested Butte Fire Protection District and Gunnison Volunteer Fire Department spent two days training together on coordinated engine and truck operations. Crews practiced combining fire attack, forcible entry, and search to improve how quickly and effectively they can put water on the fire and search the areas where occupants are most likely to be found.

The training drew on data from the Firefighter Rescue Survey and was led by True Grit Training. These coordinated skills help crews work efficiently and give people the best chance of survival, especially when paired with high-quality medical care.

A special thank-you to Chief Chris James of Denver Fire for sharing his experience and leading the training, and to True Grit Training for helping strengthen our teams’ capabilities. ... See MoreSee Less