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Ladner resident named Fire Chief of Year

Ladner resident Tim Armstrong always wanted to be a firefighter and after 36 years of service, he was recently recognized as Fire Chief of the Year by the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs. “It’s totally unexpected.
armstrong
New Westminster fire chief Tim Armstrong is being presented with an honorary degree from the Justice Institute of B.C.

Ladner resident Tim Armstrong always wanted to be a firefighter and after 36 years of service, he was recently recognized as Fire Chief of the Year by the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs.

“It’s totally unexpected. It was nice considering it was a cross-Canada award,” Armstrong said. “It’s nice to be recognized by your peers and other community leaders.”

Armstrong received the award at the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs gala last month in Vancouver. Each year, the association recognizes a handful of fire chiefs for dedication to the fire service.

“It’s really not about one person, it’s all about a team effort. Somebody’s got to lead the team, but it’s all about relationships and collaboration and building your network and having people buy into your vision,” he said.

Armstrong became the chief in New Westminster in 2009 after 29 years with the Vancouver Fire Department. When he came onboard in New West, he had two things in mind – protecting citizens and his members.

“The work that the firefighters do is dangerous, it’s challenging,” he said. “So my vision is about equipping them and training them and giving them every opportunity to be the best they can be at their profession.”

New Westminster Mayor Jonathan Cote said Armstrong’s dedication to the fire department and to the community is evident throughout the city, adding that the recognition is “well deserved.”

City of New Westminster CAO Lisa Spitale said Armstrong is an extraordinary fire chief.

“His professionalism, dedication to his department and commitment to public safety are all components for this well-deserved award,” said Spitale.

— With files from Ian Jacques