Gord Ditchburn

Gord Ditchburn is a senior executive with a keen focus on operations and strategy with over four decades of experience across top public safety and emergency management organizations. Gord retired from Vancouver Fire Rescue Service in 2024. Over his fire suppression career he developed extensive experience in fire rescue emergency operations, specialty teams including Hazardous Materials, logistical planning, training and development, and crisis management. Gord also served as president of IAFF Local 18, Secretary-Treasurer and President of the BC Professional Fire Fighters Association and the BCPFF Burn Fund and as Senior Executive of IAFF Canada. Gord has served on numerous committees in these roles including developing the BC Fire Service Minimum Training Standards and E-Comm’s Interoperable P25 public safety radio network.

Gord brings extensive experience in government relations at all levels, a skilled negotiator and relationship-builder. In addition to his work with Vancouver Fire, he serves as an Instructor with the Justice Institute of BC. Gord holds a certificate in Executive Leadership, a certificate in Labour Relations, as well as real life experience in delivering results for community safety. Gord also holds board positions including, President of the Municipal Pension Retirees’ Assn, trustee of the Municipal Retiree Benefit Trust, the People’s Pantry Food Recovery Society and the Board of Directors for TransLink. Gord’s varied career has given him an exceptional understanding of the challenges facing today’s fire service, well positioning him to provide advice and assistance to fire departments at all levels. Gord is now working as a consultant utilizing his extensive skills and experience to help fire departments, CAOs and elected officials build safer communities.