Fire Chief Dave Upper wins Fire Chief of the Year

St. Catharines Fire Chief Dave Upper has been recognized as one of the best in the province.

Upper was presented with the award last week at the 2026 Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) Hicks Morley Labour Relations Seminar in Toronto. The Hicks Morley Fire Chief of the Year Award is presented annually to fire chiefs who exhibit exceptional leadership, dedication, and a profound impact on their communities. 

“It is very humbling,” Upper said regarding the recognition. “I’ve been very blessed to be part of a great team at St. Catharines Fire Services. While this individual recognition is appreciated, none of the great work we do would be done without the exceptional teamwork of the fire services and the corporation.”

Upper first joined the service as a firefighter in 1991, working his way through the ranks to deputy chief, a position he held from 2017, before being named Fire Chief in 2021.

“Chief Upper’s recognition by the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs is well deserved,” said City of St. Catharines CAO David Oakes. “His leadership, commitment to service, and focus on teamwork have helped strengthen St. Catharines Fire Services and the important work it does for our community and the 36 communities we serve through our fire dispatch services.”