Faces of Forestry is an initiative of the Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) to highlight people doing great work to enhance our forests throughout British Columbia. This month, we feature Rob Robinson, Fire Chief for Summerland Fire Rescue.
In the mid-1990s, Rob was encouraged by his friends to join the local fire service. As he began working as a paid-on-call firefighter, he quickly discovered that he enjoyed the fast-paced, high-energy environment.
“In that moment, I knew firefighting was the right path for me. What started as curiosity soon became a lifelong career,” he said.
Since then, Rob has undertaken extensive training and professional development, serving as a training officer, instructing Firefighter Levels One and Two, Emergency Vehicle Operations, Technical Rescue, Vehicle Extrication, Hazardous Materials Response, Wildland Firefighting, among others.
In his current role as Fire Chief for the District of Summerland, Rob manages large-scale incidents involving multiple operational periods and is actively involved in emergency management and municipal planning.
“I’m responsible for setting the vision and direction for the department and overseeing its daily operations. I lead and mentor two Deputy Fire Chiefs, two career firefighters, and 30 paid-on-call members. Together, we are committed to delivering a high level of service and safety to the community,” he explained.
Early on, Rob loved working side by side in the trenches with his team members. As his career progressed, he found a passion for mentoring others and helping them grow as firefighters and leaders. For him, supporting people – whether in the department or the broader community – is deeply meaningful and fulfilling.
With wildfire seasons becoming more extreme, especially in western Canada, communities in the Okanagan Valley face increasing threats. United by a shared goal of reducing wildfire risk and promoting long-term forest health around the District of Summerland, Rob has developed a strong relationship with FESBC over the years. Together, they have collaborated on several fuel mitigation and forest restoration projects, helping protect the community while also supporting the local ecosystem.
“The proactive work we’re doing with FESBC is essential to reduce fuel loads, lower fire severity, and protect lives and property. This work also ensures that our surrounding forests remain healthy and resilient for future generations,” he said.
In addition, Rob believes that the steps taken today for wildfire mitigation—done in large part in collaboration with FESBC— are a long-term investment in the safety and sustainability of communities like Summerland.
“Mitigation efforts now will make a real difference when wildfires inevitably reach our region, and they will help ensure our community is better prepared and protected,” he added.
Thank you, Rob, for your dedication to enhancing forest health, your commitment to community safety, and your inspiring passion for mentoring the next generation of firefighters.