Oshawa Fire Services congratulates Deputy Fire Chief Whetham

The City of Oshawa and Oshawa Fire Services (OFS) are pleased to announce the appointment of Ken Whetham as the City’s newest Deputy Fire Chief, overseeing Professional Development, Emergency Management, and Administrative Support.

Deputy Chief Ken Whetham brings more than 25 years of leadership and emergency services experience to his new role. His public safety career started as a Police Officer before transitioning to Oshawa Fire Services in 2009, initially serving as a firefighter within the Suppression division.

Throughout his tenure, Deputy Whetham made significant contributions to the department, serving as a Technical Rescue team member and as a shift-training instructor for various rescue operations and medical training. After a promotion to Training Officer in 2018, Deputy Whetham developed, implemented and delivered training programs to suppression staff, as well as developed video training, a recruit fitness program and an elevator rescue program.

In 2020, he was promoted to the position of Assistant Deputy Chief. To enhance OFS’s overall management capabilities specifically in the areas of Emergency Management, business continuity, enhanced monitoring and Firefighter certification compliance, the Assistant Deputy Chief position was reclassified to Deputy Chief, effective January 2, 2024.

For information about Oshawa Fire Services, visit Oshawa.ca/Fire or follow them on Twitter.

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Quotes:

“The City congratulates Ken on his promotion to Deputy Fire Chief,” said Adam Grant, Commissioner of Safety and Facilities Services. “Ken’s dedication and contributions have enhanced Oshawa Fire Services’ operational readiness and staff preparedness. As Deputy Fire Chief, he will continue to be instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of our community with a focus on emergency management and enhanced monitoring.”

“Ken’s appointment as the City’s newest Deputy Fire Chief reflects his exceptional leadership and experience spanning over 25 years in emergency services,” said Fire Chief Stephen Barkwell. “His technical skills, combined with his extensive background in areas of fire suppression and training, position him as an invaluable leader to our team."