It is with mixed emotions that I announce the retirement of Peggy Robertson, effective August 31, 2026.
Since joining the Guelph Fire Department on September 30, 2019, Peggy has made a lasting impact through her leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence. She has been instrumental in advancing key initiatives, including but not limited to the implementation of NG911, response time improvement initiatives, and her valuable contributions to the Guelph Data Oversight Task Force, as well as her role as a management member of the Fire Joint Health and Safety Committee.
Peggy has also been instrumental in strengthening our team, supporting the recruitment of several Alarm Room Technicians and championing firefighter recruit dispatch training. Beyond her contributions to GFD, Peggy’s influence has extended across the province. She has served as Past President of the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs’ Fire Communicators Association, and as a respected member of both the Office of the Fire Marshal’s NFPA 1225 Professional Advisory Committee and the Emergency Services Working Group on NG911 with the CRTC.
Peggy is known not only for her professionalism, but also for her warmth and personality. She brings humour and kindness to every interaction, and those who have worked with her will always appreciate her unique ability to laugh and cry in the same moment. As a leader, she is calm, logical, and sets a high standard for performance and accuracy—qualities that have earned her the respect of her colleagues across the organization.
Prior to joining Guelph Fire Department, Peggy built an extensive career in emergency communications, serving as Fire Communications Supervisor with Burlington Fire Protection Service (2014–2019) and as Manager with the Hamilton Central Ambulance Communications Centre (2001–2014). Earlier in her career, she held progressive roles as an Ambulance Communications Officer, Supervisor, and Operations Manager with Hamilton Central Ambulance Communications Centre, beginning in 1997.
Throughout her career, Peggy has demonstrated exceptional commitment to public safety and emergency services, leaving a legacy that will be felt for years to come.
On behalf of Guelph Fire Department, I would like to extend sincere thanks to Peggy for her years of service and wish her all the best in her retirement.
Steven Goode,
Fire Chief