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 as a high school cadet at 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, becoming 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 held the positions of Training Officer, Health and Safety Officer, Apparatus Maintenance Technician, 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 reviewed all permitting and performed plan reviews, conducted Fire and Life Safety Inspections, administered the Burn Permit Program, and became a WA State Certified Fire Investigator.

Chad was appointed as Acting Fire Chief of Orcas Island Fire & Rescue on July 1st, 2024 and became full-time Fire Chief on March 13, 2025.