John Philips, new District Fire Chief for the Eckville Fire Department. (Image Credit: Lacombe County)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Changing of the Guard

Lacombe County appoints new District Fire Chief for Eckville Fire Department

Feb 13, 2026 | 3:44 PM

Lacombe County is pleased to announce the appointment of John Philips as the new District Fire Chief for the Eckville Fire Department.

County officials say Philips brings more than a decade of experience in the fire service, a long-standing commitment to training and continuous improvement, and a deep connection to the Eckville community.

“John is a dedicated leader whose passion for training, community service, and team development makes him an excellent fit for this role,” said Dave Bain, Lacombe County Manager of Fire & Emergency Services, in a press release.

With a brother who has served in the fire service for 18 years, the county says Chief Philips had been interested in firefighting for many years. Officials say his fire service career began after a life-changing incident at work reshaped his priorities. Soon after the incident, he and his family settled in Eckville, where he took a job that would allow him to be home every night.

The county says Philips immediately reached out to the local fire department, eager to contribute.

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“After being involved in an incident at work, it reshaped my approach to daily life, and it prioritized the importance of supporting your neighbours and contributing to your community,” added Chief Philips.

Experience and Leadership

County officials say Philips quickly stepped into leadership roles within the Eckville department. After just two years of service, he was appointed Lieutenant/Training Officer, a position he held for nearly seven years. He later advanced to Deputy Chief, responsible for training and continuous improvement initiatives.

The county says his progression into the District Fire Chief role feels like a natural next step for him.

“I’ve always gravitated toward leadership roles and strive to make a better situation for everyone while I’m there,” he said. “I’m excited to continue building on the incredible work of the Chiefs who came before me.”

Vision for the Eckville Fire Department

County officials say Philips is eager to continue strengthening community engagement and elevating the department’s already strong training foundation.

“Our community has always been an incredible supporter of this department. That connection is what motivates us every day. It makes hard days better knowing that the efforts of your team are appreciated by the community.”

According to the county, Philips says he plans to focus on continued community outreach by the Eckville Fire Department through breakfasts, school tours, hall tours, parades, fireworks events, and new initiatives introduced by the department’s outreach committee.

See what it’s all about!

County officials say Eckville and the surrounding area have long embraced its fire department, and Philips says that support fuels the team’s commitment. Like many small-town fire departments, officials say the Eckville Fire Department is always in need of more helping hands.

Philips also emphasizes the importance of public involvement and encourages residents of all ages and backgrounds to consider volunteering.

“Many people hesitate because they think their schedule, age, or fitness level might hold them back,” Philips said. “Most of the time, that simply isn’t the case. Take the leap. Ask questions. You might find yourself gaining a fire family.”

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE

Lacombe County says it would like to thank outgoing fire chief Stuart Carde for his dedication and commitment.

Stuart Carde was District Fire Chief for the Eckville Fire Department from 2012-2025.

Throughout his tenure, County officials say Carde led with integrity, purpose, and a clear vision that helped shape the department into the strong, professional team it is today. Officials say his unwavering commitment to training and operational excellence set a standard that will continue to guide the department for years to come.

The county says Carde’s leadership strengthened the department’s readiness and reinforced a culture rooted in doing things the right way—responsibly, collaboratively, and with pride. Officials say his extensive fireground knowledge, earned over decades of hands-on experience, was generously shared and has influenced countless firefighters’ ground knowledge.

The county says Carde’s legacy will remain a cornerstone of the Eckville Fire Department, and they wish him the best in his well-earned retirement.