Township of Selwyn Announces Retirement of Fire Chief and Appointment of New Fire Chief
The Township of Selwyn is pleased to announce an important leadership transition within the Selwyn Fire Department following the upcoming retirement of Fire Chief Gord Jopling. The Township is also pleased to announce the appointment of current Deputy Fire Chief Howard Jinkerson as the new Fire Chief.
After 38 years of dedicated service to the Township of Selwyn, Chief Jopling will retire effective August 31, 2026. Chief Jopling began his service with the Selwyn Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter, serving the community for 10 years before being appointed Fire Chief in May 1998.
Throughout his career, Chief Jopling has demonstrated a deep commitment to the fire service and an unwavering dedication to protecting the residents of Selwyn Township. His leadership, experience, and commitment to mentoring future firefighters have had a lasting impact on the Selwyn Fire Department and the broader community. Under his leadership, the Department has continued to deliver exceptional emergency response, fire prevention, and public education services while maintaining a strong culture of teamwork, professionalism, and community service.
Following a successful recruitment process, the Township is pleased to announce the appointment of Deputy Fire Chief Howard Jinkerson as Fire Chief, effective August 4, 2026. Deputy Chief Jinkerson brings more than 22 years of fire service experience, strong leadership skills, and extensive knowledge of fire operations, emergency management, and fire prevention. Throughout his career, he has supported several department initiatives, including equipment purchases, firefighter training, and regulatory compliance and certification. His experience, and commitment to public safety make him well suited to lead the Selwyn Fire Department.
To ensure a seamless transition of leadership and operations, Chief Jopling and Deputy Chief Jinkerson will work together during a transition period before Chief Jopling's retirement, providing continuity for firefighters, 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. I would like to thank Gord for his outstanding service to the Township and wish him all the best in retirement."
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. I am excited to continue working alongside such an amazing group of firefighters and supporting the important work they do every day.”
The Township of Selwyn extends its sincere appreciation to Chief Gord Jopling for his years of dedicated service and leadership and wishes him every success and happiness in retirement. The Township also congratulates Howard Jinkerson on his appointment and looks forward to supporting him as he leads the Selwyn Fire Department into its next chapter.
