The Hillsboro Fire & Rescue Department is excited to announce the appointment of Fred Charlton to the position of Deputy Fire Chief of Operations – filling a vacancy following the retirement of Greg Espinosa.

With Hillsboro Fire & Rescue since 2021, Charlton previously led the department’s training and professional development programs for fire, emergency medical services, technical rescue and administrative services personnel. Additionally, he managed recruitment and hiring efforts for the department’s firefighting workforce.   

After an extensive nationwide search, he was officially sworn in by Fire Chief David Downey at the Department’s Recognition & Awards Ceremony on March 19, 2026.  

“We are beyond excited he’s accepted the role of Deputy Chief of Operations,” said Chief Downey.

“Chief Charlton has been an invaluable part of our team and will no doubt continue to bring innovative and strategic leadership to his new role – helping to guide our department forward in service to the Hillsboro community,” added Downey.

As Deputy Chief, Charlton oversees the operation and delivery of services across the department’s six strategically located fire stations and operations staff of 122 firefighters and paramedics.

“It’s an honor to fill the position Deputy Chief of Operations with Hillsboro Fire & Rescue. Our focus will remain on providing the highest level of service to the community, training, and ensuring the safety, health, and wellbeing of our members,” said Deputy Chief Fred Charlton.

Deputy Chief Charlton joined the fire service as a volunteer in 1989 and began serving as a professional firefighter/paramedic in 1994. He served most of his career with Clackamas Fire District #1, holding several leadership roles – rising from firefighter to lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, deputy chief, and ultimately chief until his retirement from the District in April 2021.

Deputy Chief Charlton holds several professional certifications and awards. He is an adjunct instructor with Eastern Oregon University and holds an Executive Master of Public Administration degree.

Hillsboro Fire and Rescue is a career organization of 154 personnel, led by Fire Chief David Downey, serving the 25.67 square mile area of Hillsboro and its more than 110,000 residents. As a full-service, all-hazard, all-risk department, we provide emergency fire response, rescue, and life safety outreach, with EMT firefighters and paramedics to deliver rapid, expert emergency services. Beyond emergency response, we are deeply committed to community partnerships and proactive fire prevention and harm reduction efforts — child and senior safety, smoke alarms, Hands-Only CPR, and home fire safety — reflecting our core mission to approach every situation with excellence, professionalism, and sincere compassion while striving to make Hillsboro a safe and thriving city to live, work, and play.