Chris Hupe has been appointed as the new Deputy Fire Chief of the Ocean Springs Fire Department, bringing 15 years of experience in the fire service to the position. City leaders praise Hupe for his "extensive experience and a deep commitment to public safety," which they believe will greatly benefit the department.
Ryan Heath Named Fire Chief
Effective June 19, 2024, Ryan Heath has been promoted to Fire Chief. With 18 years of service in the Ocean Springs Fire Department, Heath previously served as Deputy Chief, where he led initiatives to improve emergency response capabilities.
Meet Deputy Fire Chief Chris Hupe
Hupe began his career with the Ocean Springs Fire Department in 2012 as a firefighter, steadily rising through the ranks. According to city leaders, "throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, operational expertise, and a strong dedication to community service."
Hupe is married to Vicky Hupe, the city's Deputy City Clerk, and they have one son.
“We are thrilled to promote Chris Hupe to the position of Deputy Fire Chief,” said Fire Chief Ryan Heath. “He has consistently shown an unwavering commitment to our department’s mission and values. I am confident that his leadership will further enhance our ability to serve and protect our community.”
As Deputy Fire Chief, Hupe will oversee the department’s operations, playing a crucial role in strategic planning, policy development, and ensuring the highest standards of service and safety for both the department and the community.
“I am honored to take on this new role and continue working alongside the dedicated professionals of the Ocean Springs Fire Department,” said Hupe. “I look forward to contributing to the continued success and advancement of our department as we strive to provide the best possible service to our residents.”
Background and Achievements
Hupe holds a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Services and graduated from the Alabama Fire College Basic Recruit Academy. In 2021, he was promoted to Training Chief, where he developed and implemented training programs that enhanced departmental competency and ensured all personnel were up to date with the latest practices and technologies. He also coordinated and led various Mississippi State Fire Academy courses in Ocean Springs, including the 1001 Basic Recruit Academy and 1002 Apparatus Operations.
“In my new role as Deputy Chief, I plan to take my experience in training and development, leadership, organization, communication, and problem-solving and commit to continuous improvement within the Ocean Springs Fire Department," commented Hupe. "I will always seek ways to enhance department performance and effectiveness."
