Ryan Hoenke will step into a newly created role as Deputy Fire Warden with the Custer County Volunteer Fire Department, helping shoulder some of the leadership responsibilities. The position was created following a May request from County Fire Warden Cory Cheguis, who noted he’s been carrying a heavy workload largely by himself as head of the department, which has also presented issues finding a sustainable work-life balance.
Hoenke, a multi-year veteran of the department, has also seen how much Cheguis has on his plate, saying it is what led him to apply for the new role, as he aims to help lighten the workload while also being more involved with the various programs the department manages.
Reflecting on his previous experience, he feels he is especially capable to fulfill this role. Prior to joining the CCVFD, Hoenke previously worked in wildland fire fighting for both the Bureau of Land Management and Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, regular partners of the county fire department whenever they plan community engagement opportunities. He’s also worked with other county-level fire departments, such as the Dawson County Rural Volunteer Fire Department.
