New Fire Chief Named as Selwyn Fire Department Prepares for Leadership Change

By Scott Arnold

The Township of Selwyn has announced the retirement of longtime Fire Chief Gord Jopling and the appointment of Deputy Fire Chief Howard Jinkerson as the department's next Fire Chief.

The Township of Selwyn has announced that Deputy Fire Chief Howard Jinkerson will become the next Fire Chief of the selwyn fire department, taking over from gord jopling who will retire at the end of next month (photo courtesy of the township of selwyn)

After 38 years of service with the Selwyn Fire Department, Jopling will retire effective Aug. 31, 2026.

Jopling began his career as a volunteer firefighter, serving the community for 10 years before being appointed Fire Chief in May 1998. During his time leading the department, he oversaw emergency response, fire prevention and public education while helping build a strong culture of teamwork, professionalism and community service. He also played a key role in mentoring future firefighters throughout his career.

retiring fire chief gord jopling started his career with the selwyn fire department in 1998 (photo provided by the township of selwyn)

Following a recruitment process, the Township has appointed Deputy Fire Chief Howard Jinkerson as Fire Chief, effective Aug. 4, 2026.

Jinkerson brings more than 22 years of fire service experience to the role, along with extensive knowledge of fire operations, emergency management and fire prevention. He has also helped lead several department initiatives, including equipment purchases, firefighter training, regulatory compliance and certification.

To help ensure a smooth transition, Jopling and Jinkerson will work together before Jopling's retirement, providing continuity for firefighters, Township staff and the community.

"Although I have only had the opportunity to work alongside Chief Jopling for a short time, it is clear why he is so highly respected throughout the organization and the community. His dedication to public safety, commitment to the department, and leadership over many years have created a strong legacy for the Selwyn Fire Department," said Chief Administrative Officer Jennifer Moore. "I would like to thank Gord for his outstanding service to the Township and wish him all the best in retirement. I am confident that Deputy Chief Jinkerson's experience, leadership, and commitment to the community will ensure a smooth transition and continued excellence in fire services for Selwyn Township."

"I am honoured to have the opportunity to serve as Fire Chief for the Township of Selwyn. I would like to thank Fire Chief Gord Jopling for his years of dedication to the department and the community, and I appreciate the confidence placed in me by the Township," said Jinkerson. "I am excited to continue working alongside such an amazing group of firefighters and supporting the important work they do every day."

The Township thanked Jopling for his decades of dedicated service and leadership and wished him all the best in retirement while congratulating Jinkerson on his appointment as the Selwyn Fire Department prepares for its next chapter.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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