West Pierce Fire & Rescue Chief Ken Sharp Announces Retirement

After 35 years of service, Ken Sharp will retire from West Pierce Fire & Rescue on March 15th.

Sharp was West Pierce's first fire chief following the merger of the Lakewood Fire Department and the University Place Fire Department in 2011.

Sharp graduated from Lakes High School and began his career with the Lakewood Fire Department shortly thereafter, in September 1977. He worked his way through the ranks before being appointed fire chief in 2007. During his tenure, the merger occurred to create West Pierce Fire & Rescue and the department recently entered into a contract to provide emergency services to the Town of Steilacoom.

In addition to serving as fire chief, Sharp also serves on various regional boards, including the Combined Operations Board of South Sound 911 and the Pierce County Disability Board, both of which he chairs. 

Sharp leaves the job with no regrets.  "I've been blessed in my career to work with some of the finest people in the profession.  It's been a great ride," he said.

-West Pierce Fire & Rescue