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We’re pleased to return with the latest edition of our Instructor Spotlight. The instructors at the Faculty of Open Learning & Career Development bring a wealth of experience in their fields, and our learners benefit greatly as they work to advance their careers.

Today, we’re celebrating another of our dedicated instructors – Glen Maddess. Glen is not only a long-time ´ºÓêÖ±²¥ Fire Service Leadership instructor, but has been instrumental in the full revamp of OLCD's Fire Leadership Program. Let’s get to know him and learn about his career in fire safety and his passion for teaching.

1) How long have you been in the field of fire services? 

I started out as a 16-year-old working alongside my dad in an isolated mining community, fighting a local forest wildfire for the BC Forestry Service at 75 cents per hour. Wildfires were a common occurrence in those remote communities surrounded by forest.

The following year, as a 17-year-old, I joined several high school classmates to fight an out-of-control wildfire for a logging company at $1.25 per hour—a huge raise. Unfortunately, one of the non-student crew members drowned while taking an unsafe boat to cross the Squamish River to the fire. This experience led me to focus on safe emergency firefighting operations.

That focus on safety was further reinforced during my time as a volunteer firefighter with the West Vancouver Fire Department, prior to a 37-year all-position career with Vancouver Fire Rescue Services. During my career in Vancouver, there were two line-of-duty deaths, including that of a good friend and carpool buddy. Both tragedies underscored the importance of training for and conducting all aspects of fire rescue operations safely.

I’ve had the opportunity to share these lessons with students in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and North America, including within the DAL program. Additionally, I’ve managed and directed Fire Officer education programs in Canada, the United States, and the Middle East.

2) What has been the biggest change in your field in recent years? 

Emergency medical response has long been a core part of assisting citizens during health crises and accidents. However, the scale of today’s opioid overdose crisis has underscored the critical role fire rescue services play—not just in firefighting, but as a vital component of our emergency medical system. This expanded responsibility has increased the stress, health challenges, and mental strain faced by many first responders.

3) What’s the most surprising thing we might see on your resume/CV? 

I was employed by the United States National Fire Academy and the Department of Homeland Security on various occasions, as well as by several U.S. universities and colleges, to teach American fire service members. These opportunities came after completing both a fire-focused bachelor’s and master’s degree, along with my experience as Director of the Fire Safety Division at the Justice Institute of British Columbia.

4) How do you unwind? 

Before the severe cold snaps in Kelowna in recent years, I enjoyed growing twenty-six large Gewürztraminer grape plants, then crushing, racking, and fermenting them into a passable house wine. These days, I enjoy digging, planting, and growing vegetables for the household table.

5) What's the best aspect of teaching with the Faculty?

I really enjoy learning about what's happening in fire departments across Canada, as well as the personal interaction with students and fellow instructors.

Glen is the instructor for our , which starts in September, and our course, which begins in January 2026.  To learn even more about our new Fire Leadership program, please visit the program’s website.