Chris Opperman

District Chief, Chris Opperman is a dedicated member of San Juan County Fire and Rescue, serving over 17 years in all capacities for the betterment of the service. With a lifelong commitment to firefighting and a strong sense of community, Chris has selflessly devoted himself to ensuring the safety and well-being of our county's residents.

Chris's journey in firefighting began as a volunteer firefighter, responding to the call of duty with unwavering dedication. Over the years, his passion for fire services and his natural leadership abilities became evident, leading him to ascend through the ranks and assume the role of District Chief.  He found a passion as an instructor along the way and serves as the program coordinator for San Juan College's Fire Science program.

 

Chris is an advocate within the fire service, providing guidance, inspiration, and a wealth of knowledge acquired through years of experience. His leadership is characterized by integrity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the safety of our community. He understands that volunteering in the fire department demands a unique balance of dedication and sacrifice, often alongside other personal and professional commitments. He leads by example, always ready to answer the call, and inspiring his team to do the same.  This, coupled with a very close working relationship with our local career department allows for better insight and training for the fire service in general.  Chris is not only an outstanding firefighter but also a passionate advocate for fire safety education within our community. He is dedicated to ensuring that residents are well-informed about fire prevention and safety measures, and he works tirelessly to organize community events, drills, and training programs to foster a safer environment for all.

 

Beyond his role as Fire Chief, Chris cherishes quality time spent with his family and friends, who have supported him throughout his firefighting journey. He also enjoys participating in local charity events and lending a helping hand wherever he's needed in our community