Jeremy Virts has been appointed as the new Fire Chief of Great Falls Fire Rescue by City Manager Greg Doyon. He will begin his tenure immediately, succeeding former Fire Chief Jeremy M. Jones, who now serves as Deputy City Manager for the City of Great Falls.
Chief Virts launched his career with the Great Falls Police Department in 2000, where he advanced to the position of Senior Patrolman and worked as a Medic in the High Risk Unit. In 2006, he joined Great Falls Fire Rescue (GFFR), where he progressed steadily through the ranks.
Throughout his career at GFFR, Virts has held various positions, including Paramedic Instructor, Captain, Acting Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and Assistant Chief of Operations. His professional journey showcases extensive operational experience, strong leadership in EMS, and a dedication to professional development. In addition to his fire service career, Virts has served in the United States Army Reserve and has worked for multiple organizations as a paramedic.
Virts remains actively involved in fire and EMS leadership at both local and state levels. He currently holds several leadership positions, including Chair of the Great Falls 911 Emergency Medical System, Vice Chair of the Montana Fire Fighters Testing Consortium, EMS Coordinator of the Great Falls EMS System, and member of the Montana EMS Board.
He holds a degree in paramedicine from Great Falls College MSU and has continued to enhance his professional expertise through advanced leadership training, which includes Fire Officer I and Instructor C through the MSU Fire Services Training School, as well as Command of Multi-Incident Operations through the National Fire Academy. He also serves as a Lead Instructor for EMS in the State of Montana and maintains his national EMT-Paramedic certification.
“It is an honor and privilege to lead this department,” stated Virts. “My focus will be on working to ensure our members are prepared and supported to serve our community safely and effectively, while strengthening partnerships and staying engaged with the people we are here to protect.”
The city advertised the Fire Chief position, received 28 applications, and officials interviewed five candidates. City Manager Doyon says, “I look forward to working with Jeremy in his new role as Fire Chief. The community is fortunate to have someone with his experience leading the department.”
By Karen Anderson: March 4, 2026 – Great Falls, Mt
Author: Karen Anderson
Karen is the Editor-in-Chief overseeing all news operations at Foxys Publishing Co. She also loves photography and spending time with her dogs.
