Jul 18, 2024
Corrie Johnson
I work at the Kalispel Tribal Public Safety Department as the Fire Chief and Emergency Manager.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Helping others that find themselves in an emergency.
What’s the best thing about Kalispel Tribe?
Our culture as caring, generous people.
What does your workspace look like?
I work out of the Public Safety North Division along with 3 full-time firefighters, 6 Volunteers, 1 Operations specialist, and 7 Law Enforcement Officers. Our Public Safety South Division has 13 LE officers and 2 office staff. As a team, we handle all Law Enforcement, Fire, and medical calls for both locations. We all stay busy doing what we love!!!!
What’s been one of your proudest moments working at Kalispel Tribe?
Lyle Whitford’s graduation from the FLETC (Federal Law Enforcement Training Center) Academy. This police academy is a long and tough 4 months, not to mention far from home. I was proud to see a young Tribal member make it through the academy and now work patrol here on the reservation. I graduated from the Oregon Police Academy in 1995, and I remember the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with completing something so tough.
What do you like to do when you’re not at the office?
Camping, Archery Elk/Deer hunting, spending time with my family and friends.
What or who inspires you?
My mom, Gayle George, retired from Sacred Heart and Mesa Vista Hospital in San Diego as a Psychiatric Nurse. My dad, Gordon Campbell, retired from Law Enforcement (Washington State Patrol, Umatilla Tribal Police, Sheriff of Umatilla County, Spokane Tribal Police Chief). Both were and continue to be outstanding role models for me as a parent and helping others through Public Service.
Fill in the blank: I once met…
. . . . . the entire cast of the TV series “Yellowstone”. I had the privilege of assisting my sister in Law, Lesley, in COVID testing the entire cast and crew of the show last fall in Montana. Pretty crazy to swab the noses of so many famous people!!!!
How do you define success?
Accomplishing what you set out to do, no matter the hurdles nor the time it takes to do it!
What is your favorite event that Kalispel Tribe puts on?
Duh, Pow Wow!!!!!
What advice would you give to younger tribal members?
Decide early what kind of person you want to be in this life and make it part of your journey! Doing the right thing takes integrity, make it your mission.
What are five words (or less) of advice for others in your profession?
Make your health and safety a priority. (sorry, I didn’t say I could count).