Will Spradley: First Responder

Will Spradley, hailing from a military family in Evansville, Indiana, initially pursued a business career after studying at the University of Evansville. However, his innate inclination towards community service led him to a pivotal transition. He found his true calling in the fire service, which allowed him to assist people in need directly. 

“I started volunteering with Nolensville around 2019 and started full-time when we transitioned to a full-time department in July of 2021. Before that, I was part-time with Rutherford County Fire for a year and a half and volunteered with Williamson County Rescue Squad starting in 2017,” said Lt. Spradley, who is a firefighter with the Nolensville Fire & Rescue Department.

“Being able to help people directly, especially in their times of need, is the best part about my job. And not just citizens but also the other members of the department.”

As a new department, the Nolensville Fire & Rescue team is challenged by constantly changing situations and issues. However, Spradley enjoys navigating situations and learning new things. As the department’s special operations coordinator, he believes in staying motivated every day to impact the department’s success and direction. 

“I know that if I slow down and stop learning and practicing my skills, I could let myself down, someone on my crew, or a citizen in distress,” he added. 

Since joining the fire service, Spradley has completed several certification programs. Most recently, he finished his TEEX USAR rescue specialist certification. As a lieutenant, he is dedicated to helping others achieve their career goals. He loves to work in a close team with like-minded people.

Nolensville Rescue & Fire Department serves Nolensville and parts of the unincorporated areas around Williamson County. The department is working on constantly expanding its response and public education programs.

Spradley admires the support his department has received from the locals. “Our communities make us feel greatly appreciated,” he shared. 

“I am touched by simple instances like daily calls where no one was sick, in serious trouble, and nothing was on fire. Also, the simple acts of helping someone up, calming someone down, or reassuring them that there are no hazards in someone’s house make their day. As average as those calls sound, the relief people have on their faces and knowing I could make their day better with a simple act helps remind me that I chose the best job for myself. On top of that, working with all the hard-working, smart, and skilled individuals in the department makes coming to work all the better.”

When he is not wearing the uniform, Spradley enjoys his hobbies, which include fishing, boating, shooting, hunting, camping, woodworking, brewing beer, swimming, and hanging out with family and friends.