Age: 39
Occupation: Arson investigator and Realtor
Email: rwiese3@wiesepropertiesinc.com
Education: Associate of Applied Science in Emergency Medical Services; ssociate of Applied Science in Fire Science Technology; Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management
Family: Wife, Amy; daughter, Emma, 19; sons Ryker, 9, and Beckett, 6
Affiliations/community activities:
Youth baseball coach, Springfield Shamrocks; Illinois Chapter of International Association of Arson Investigators; Capital Area Association of REALTORS
What is your guiding principle in life?
My guiding principle is to be an asset to the people around me. I enjoy watching others grow and succeed. Coaching youth baseball helps fulfill that purpose by giving me the opportunity to teach young athletes how to work through adversity, build resilience and gain confidence. Whether it’s my family, my career or the community, I want to leave people better than I found them.
What led you to your career? I never really had to search for a career path. From a young age, I was drawn to the fire service. Growing up in a family of first responders, I heard the stories, saw the dedication and witnessed the impact they had on people’s lives. I knew I wanted to be a part of it. I became an EMT at 18 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force as a crash fire rescue technician, which strengthened my passion for emergency services. Twenty some years later, I still have that same drive for the fire service and the opportunities it provides to serve others. Along the way, I discovered another passion: real estate. Julie and her team at Keller Williams Capital introduced me to an entirely different way of thinking and problem solving. Real estate challenges me to grow in areas I never expected and gave me a new appreciation for business, relationships and long-term planning.
What is your greatest hope for Springfield? To see our downtown continue to grow and thrive. Having worked downtown for much of my career, I’ve witnessed the challenges and have seen the potential it has. I’d love to see more people living, working and spending time downtown with thriving local businesses, restored buildings and a strong sense of community.
What would you like to give back to your community? I give back to my community through fire and arson investigation. By determining the cause of fires and providing answers to those affected, I play a role in improving public safety and helping people move forward after difficult events. I’m also a resource for those impacted by fire, offering guidance, support and direction during what is often one of the most challenging times in their lives.
This article appears in July SBJ 2026.