East Jefferson Fire Rescue (EJFR) has hired Jim Walkowski, a 32-year veteran of the fire service to be the new fire chief. Walkowski was most recently assistant chief at Spokane County Fire District 9, which is comprised of nine fire stations and 170 career and volunteer personnel within a 122-square-mile service area, according to an EJFR press release.

As the assistant chief of emergency services at District 9, he supervised the fire/EMS operations, training and special operation divisions of the district.

Walkowski is a graduate of the University of Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute and attended Western/Eastern Oregon University. He has served as board member, president and now past president of the Washington Fire Chiefs Association.

Walkowski began in the fire service with the Bainbridge Island Fire Department in 1985. He progressed through the ranks of firefighter, company officer and chief fire officer during his career with the City of SeaTac Fire Department, South Kitsap Fire and Rescue, Bainbridge Island Fire Department and Riverside Fire Authority. He serves on numerous teams and committees including the NE Washington Interagency Incident Management Team and the HLS Regional Urban Search and Rescue Team. He is a member of the International Fire Chiefs Association and Inland Empire Fire Chiefs Association.

Walkowski cited several opportunities for the growth and development of EJFR in his decision to accept this position.

“I understand that the District is in the early stages of annexation discussions with the City of Port Townsend. I have a great deal of experience facilitating the merger of fire organizations, both as president of the State Fire Chief’s Association and in my previous positions. I look forward to supporting these efforts,” Walkowski said in the press release.

He also noted goals to further strengthen relationships with the City of Port Townsend, neighboring fire districts and the Port of Port Townsend.

“I’ll be looking for opportunities to partner with these and other organizations to enhance overall service to the community,” Walkowski said.

EJFR Board Chair Rich Stapf, Jr. expressed satisfaction with Walkowski’s hire.

“He has an ideal blend of operational experience and political knowledge which will be critical for us in the coming years. Plus, we’ve heard nothing but positive reviews from people who know him and have worked with him in the past,” Stapf said in press release.

Walkowski and his wife, Sarah, have three grown children. When off-duty, he dedicates time to family and providing fire service instruction with a team of other fire service professionals.

His first day with EJFR will be Monday, Dec. 18.