Winnipeg fire paramedic chief to retire

The head of the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service is retiring.

After nearly 33 years of service, Christian Schmidt will soon step down as paramedic and fire chief in Winnipeg, a Friday press release said.

He joined the WFPS in 1993 and has served in a number of roles throughout his career. In the release Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham thanked the chief for his years of service. He took over as fire chief in 2021 and took over the position after former chief John Lane retired.

“He has been an innovative leader, guiding the WFPS through a period of real modernization, from new facilities and equipment to the implementation of a more advanced dispatch system that is improving how we respond to calls,” said the mayor in the release.

“Just as importantly, he has led with a collaborative approach, working with partners across the system to deliver better service for Winnipeggers. He leaves the department in a strong position for the future, and I wish him all the best in retirement.”

His retirement is effective July 3 and the City of Winnipeg says a search for the new chief will now begin.