From student firefighter to deputy chief: Boardman Fire Rescue District promotes Sam Irons
By Griffin Beach on Tuesday, July 7th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
BOARDMAN – Boardman Fire Rescue District has promoted Sam Irons to deputy chief, where he will oversee operations and training.
Irons started with the district in 2012 as a student firefighter and earned his Firefighter I certification before turning 18. He then rose through ranks as an EMT, engineer, lieutenant, battalion chief and training officer.
District officials said Irons has embraced every opportunity to learn, lead and mentor others, adding that his leadership has earned the respect of his peers and the community.
“Sam has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving our community and investing in the future of the fire service,” the district said in a statement.
Irons frequently points to a quote often attributed to physicist Albert Einstein: “Once you stop learning, you start dying.”
Photo from Boardman Fire Rescue District
