Chad Kimple is a lifelong resident of Orcas Island in San Juan County, WA. He holds an associate’s degree in Fire Science from Columbian Southern University.

Chad began his fire service career path in 2002 in High School with Orcas Island Fire & Rescue (OIFR). In the summer of 2005, he worked with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources as a wildland firefighter. In 2006, Chad became a part-time employee of OIFR and became a full-time response Lieutenant in 2008.  

Chad has risen through the ranks from volunteer FF/EMT to career Captain Duty Officer of D Shift. During this time, he has worked as a Training Officer, Health and Safety Officer, Apparatus Maintenance, and many other roles, including Acting Assistant Chief. 

In 2021, Chad switched careers from OIFR to San Juan County as the County Fire Marshal. As the County Fire Marshal, he reviews all permitting and performs plan reviews, conducts Fire and Life Safety Inspections, Administers the Burn Permit Program, and is a WA State Certified Fire Investigator.

Chad was appointed as the Acting Fire Chief of Orcas Island Fire & Rescue on Monday, July 1st, 2024.