The City of Colwood has announced a new fire chief.
Bryan Erwin is stepping into the role after 17 years with Colwood Fire Rescue, the last 15 of which have been spent as a career member, according to a news release.
Over the course of his career, Erwin spent time working in all areas of the fire service, including operations, prevention training and as a member of the Capital Regional District’s regional hazmat team. He has also worked as an instructor with the Justice Institute of B.C., teaching everything from the fundamentals of firefighting to advanced fire officer development.
“I am excited to serve the residents of our community as fire chief and look forward to the challenges this new role will present,” Erwin said. “Through strong leadership and cooperation, I will work collaboratively with community members, council, city staff, neighbouring fire departments and members of the fire department to excel Colwood Fire Rescue into the future.”
Outside of his fire service career, Erwin grew up on the West Shore and has lived in Colwood for more than 30 years, spending plenty of time in local arenas and fields as a supporter of the local sports community.
He takes over the helm after the sudden death of Chief John Cassidy last summer.
“We’re very grateful to acting Chief Greg Chow, who guided Colwood’s fire rescue team through a very difficult time with compassion and confidence,” read the release. “With 75 years of valued service to Colwood as the West Shore’s longest-serving fire department, our community can look forward to continued excellence in emergency response from our fire rescue team with Chief Erwin at the helm.”