Regional Emergency Services is appointing their first-ever female Deputy Chief.

Kelly Roberts is being named the new Deputy Chief, Operations and Technical Services after serving five years as Assistant Deputy Chief, Communications.

“Historically, the position of Deputy Chief, Operations and Technical Services has been held primarily by males with past experience in firefighting,” said Jody Butz, Regional Fire Chief.

“Kelly brings a fresh new perspective to the role with her extensive knowledge, experience, and her accomplishments within the department.”

Roberts has spent the last six months as Acting Deputy Fire Chief, Operations and Technical Services, leading RES crews during April’s Flood and the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the 2016 Horse River wildfire, she led the RMWB’s 9-1-1 emergency communications centre and also helped the centre attain International Academics of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) status.

“Through all of these events, Kelly has demonstrated strong leadership and I have full confidence in her ability to lead the operations and technical services team,” added Butz.