Watertown, WI

The City of Watertown is pleased to announce the appointment of Tanya Reynen as the new Fire Chief. With an impressive career dedicated to enhancing community safety and professional development within the fire service, Reynen brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.

Reynen’s career in public service spans nearly two decades, marked by significant contributions and achievements. Most recently, she served as the Deputy Chief of Training Center at Lake Country Fire Rescue, where she spearheaded innovative initiatives and fostered a culture of excellence.

Prior to her tenure at Lake Country Fire Rescue, Reynen served in various capacities including as a paid on Call Firefighter/Paramedic at Western Lakes Fire District, an Adjunct Fire/EMS Instructor at Waukesha County Technical College, and as a Firefighter/Paramedic at Watertown Fire Department and Town of Brookfield Fire Department.

Reynen says, “I began my full-time career in Watertown and am excited about returning to serve the department and community. What I look forward to most in this position is empowering the staff to bring their best selves to work serving the community first and to build both internal and external relationships that improve our community's resiliency.”

Reynen holds a bachelor’s degree in Fire Emergency Response Management from UW Oshkosh and an associate degree in Fire Science from Waukesha County Technical College. She is also a Nationally Registered EMT-Paramedic, has completed the Executive Fire Officer program from the National Fire Academy, and holds numerous certifications in fire and EMS instruction and management.

Police and Fire Commission Chair Brad Kuenzi said, “We are thrilled to hire Tanya knowing the passion that she has for leading and teaching.  The Watertown Fire Department is fortunate to be able to attract a talented individual like her. Tanya will be a conduit for the department and continue to make the Watertown Fire Department a destination department.”

Her commitment to professional development is reflected in her participation in speaking events and memberships in esteemed associations such as the Wisconsin EMS Association and the Wisconsin State Fire Chiefs Association.

“On behalf of our community I welcome Chief Reynen to Watertown, and I look forward to her leadership in enhancing public safety and community resilience,” Mayor Emily McFarland said. “I am proud of our Fire Department and the service they provide our residents and the surrounding area, and I’m looking forward to Chief Reynen continuing to lead that excellence.”

Chief Reynen will take command of the department in April. A public swearing-in ceremony will be held; further information will be released.