Firefighter, Rescue Diver, and Wildland Engine Boss

Tyler Kowalski has served with Buckskin Fire since 2015, starting as a paid-on-call EMT and earning a full-time position in 2017. Over the years, he has risen through the ranks as a highly trained Rescue Diver and Wildland Engine Boss, consistently volunteering his time to train others in rescue diving across multiple agencies.

Tyler is known for his compassion, leadership, and initiative—qualities that were on full display during a life-threatening boating accident on July 30, 2022. Responding swiftly, he entered the water within seconds, locating and rescuing a trapped juvenile from a submerged boat. His quick thinking, underwater search skills, and calm under pressure turned what could have been a tragedy into a life saved.

A dedicated public servant and informal leader within the department, Tyler exemplifies courage, character, and commitment to the fire service and his community.