With 26 years of service under their belt, not many people would even consider switching careers to take on a new challenge.
That’s exactly what South Simcoe police Staff Sgt. Steve Wilson has decided to do.
After 26 years with South Simcoe Police Service, Wilson successfully applied for the position of assistant deputy fire marshal with the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management (OFMEM).
“It’s just a new opportunity, a great opportunity,” said Wilson, who rose through the South Simcoe ranks from constable to staff sergeant.
“For the past 26 years, I’ve been improving community safety in Bradford West Gwillimbury and Innisfil," he added. "This is an opportunity to improve community safety throughout the province.”
The job posting demanded leadership skills, investigative know-how and fire experience.
Wilson had “two out of the three.”
He’ll be taking fire training before taking on an investigative role with the OFMEM.
“I’m looking forward to it. It looked like something that was really challenging,” Wilson said. “I’m excited to be part of a new, dynamic team.”
Wednesday was his last day of active duty with South Simcoe police, although he is returning to teach the crisis negotiator course being offered by the department in partnership with Georgian College.
He starts his new position with OFMEM on Oct. 20, officially retiring from the South Simcoe police on Oct. 31.
Licinio Miguelo, chair of the Bradford West Gwillimbury-Innisfil Police Services Board, had praise for Wilson.
“Staff Sgt. Steve Wilson has played such an integral role in this organization,” Miguelo said. “He’s just done so much for this service and this community.”
That role has included leading investigations, playing an important role during the controversial police costing process six years ago, and serving as part of the South Simcoe police leadership team.
Wilson has also played a key role in reshaping media relations and using social media to connect with the community.
One of his proudest achievements, Wilson said, has been “raising the profile of the good work we’re doing and creating positive partnerships with the media.”
The praise continued from other sources.
“Steve is a very well-respected member of our service,” said South Simcoe Police Chief Andrew Fletcher, noting that Wilson “has still got a lot of gas in the tank” and is ready to take on the new challenge.
“He’s the face, really. He is South Simcoe police,” said Innisfil Mayor Lynn Dollin.
