Chief Wirth joined the fire service as a volunteer firefighter in 1989. He began serving the public with the Placid Lakes Volunteer Fire Department until 1991, when he then joined the Fort Myers Fire Department. Chief Wirth holds an Associate Degree in Fire Science, several fire-related certifications and graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.  During his time in the fire service, Chief Wirth has been recognized for his outstanding public service. He has received awards for Dedicated Service, Exceptional Service, and the Grand Cordon Award. He received the George Sanders Firefighter of the Year Award for his role in identifying and capturing a serial arsonist, along with multiple Phoenix Awards for successful life-saving events.