De Pere Fire Rescue names Brett Jansen as new chief, June 2, 2025. (Photo courtesy: De Pere Fire Rescue)
DE PERE, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — De Pere Fire Rescue has selected its next chief.
Battalion Chief Brett Jansen will serve as the department’s new leader, effective June 9, officials announced Monday. He is replacing Al Matzke, who retired in April after nearly 40 years of service to De Pere.
Jansen has been with De Pere Fire Rescue for nearly two decades. He began as a firefighter/paramedic in 2006, then transitioned to lieutenant fire officer in 2019 and battalion chief in 2022.
In 2021, Jansen was named Wisconsin State Firefighter of the Year.
According to a news release, Jansen has “consistently demonstrated leadership in emergency response, fire prevention, data management, and training, among many other accomplishments and contributions.”
He’s been part of several teams and committees on behalf of De Pere Fire Rescue, including serving as chair of the Northeast Wisconsin EMS Association, pediatric emergency care coordinator and core officer representative for the Fox River Fire District. Jansen has also contributed to the Brown County Integrated Threat Team.
“Battalion Chief Jansen is an exceptional leader, and we’re excited to see him step into the role of Fire Chief for our community,” said De Pere Mayor James Boyd in the release.
The City of De Pere has long taken pride in the strength of its public safety services and overall quality of life. We’re confident that Chief Jansen will not only uphold these high standards but also lead the department forward with professionalism, innovation, and a forward-thinking approach to fire and emergency response.
Assistant Fire Chief Jack Mlnrik has served as De Pere Fire Rescue’s interim chief during the transition period
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