Matt Wallen

A highly regarded and well known Technical Rescue Instructor in California, Matt has been involved with Code3Rescue’s Swiftwater and Technical Rope Rescue Training Program since 1997, teaching to both the fire rescue and private recreational sectors. Matt’s diverse background of being a recreational climber and whitewater boater since 1990, combined with 21 years of fire service and technical rescue experience has allowed him to conduct an innovative and comprehensive course, in a team focused, fun and challenging outdoor setting.

Matt is a graduate of CSU Chico, with a B.S degree in Outdoor Recreation and Communication Education. He currently serves as a Fire Chief for CAL FIRE Nevada-Yuba-Placer Unit since 2003. Prior, Matt served as a Fire Engineer & Captain in CAL FIRE Butte County for 7 years as a member of the Butte Interagency DART (Drowning Accident Rescue Team) and Butte Interagency Technical Rope Rescue Team from 1997 to 2003 and a member of the Butte County/CDF Helicopter Air-Rescue Team from 1999-2002.

Water and high-angle rescue is “high-risk and low-frequency” emergency, making it statistically 400% more dangerous than any other type technical rescue discipline. Matt’s driving passion is to give firefighters, public safety, military officials and anyone who works in or around water or high-angle areas, the skills and knowledge to make successful rescues and stay out of harm’s way in the event of such an emergency.