A Terrace fireman has done something only a handful of people in the business have ever accomplished. Captain Colin Willoner marked 20 years with the Terrace Fire Department on September 5, 2025.
Adding the five years he volunteered with the fire department before being hired full-time on staff, his total commitment to the community now stands at 25 years.
Looking back on his journey, Willoner said it feels good to have reached this point and to still be doing the job he loves.
“It’s been a long time coming, but it’s pretty exciting to get this far in my career, and I’m still able to do it. I’m pretty happy with this so far.”
Some of his most memorable moments were at the beginning of his time at the Terrace fire department. He remembers his first few months on the job as being some of the busiest and most chaotic times of his entire firefighting career.
“The first four months I was here were pretty chaotic. We had a major apartment fire, a plane crash, and a pretty big hazmat spill. That was all in the first months I was here.”
Staying with the fire department for so long has cost more than it has gained in skill and experience. For Willoner, one of the most important aspects has been maintaining physical fitness, which not only allows him to perform his job but also provides him with the motivation to continue.
“Having to be physically fit for this job has been a big part of my career, and that’s what I think has given me the ability to continue this long and be able to do it well to serve the community. If you’re not fit, you’re not able to do this job properly.”
Looking to the next generation, Willoner said firefighting is a tough field to get into, and anyone hoping to join needs to be prepared to work hard and show initiative.
“You gotta be motivated. That’s super important. Volunteering for anything is huge these days. If you don’t have that, you’re probably going to get overlooked. It’s a very competitive business to get into. So get yourself out there. That’s the important thing.”
For Captain Willoner, the past 20 years were marked by challenge, growth, and dedication. His career is a testament to the hard work and rewarding nature of firefighting, and his service continues to serve as a reminder for colleagues and potential recruits alike in the Terrace Fire Department.
