Chief Matt Jenkins was appointed as the CAL FIRE / San Luis Obispo Unit Chief on March 20, 2006. With this appointment he also became the Fire Chief for San Luis Obispo County, the City of Pismo Beach, Los Osos Community Services District, and the Avila Beach Community Services District. Chief Jenkins oversees some 3,200 square miles in San Luis Obispo County; over 800 personnel, including full-time, seasonal and reserve employees, Volunteers-in-Prevention and inmates; facilities in both San Luis Obispo and Ventura Counties including 21 fire stations; two conservation camps; an air attack base; and an Emergency Command Center.

Chief Jenkins began his fire service career 29 years ago in San Luis Obispo County as a Reserve Firefighter in the community of Los Osos. Shortly thereafter he found full-time employment as a Firefighter in the Sacramento area. He was employed by the Cameron Park Fire Department for over 18 years, advancing through the ranks from Firefighter to Fire Chief. Upon conducting an efficiency study for the Cameron Park Fire Department, he concluded contracting emergency services with  Cal Fire to be in the best interest of the community.

This is how he came to work for CAL FIRE and what ultimately provided him with the opportunity to transfer to the Central Coast in 1997 as a Battalion Chief. He promoted to Assistant Chief (Administration) and then Deputy Chief prior to being appointed as the Fire Chief of Cal Fire/San Luis Obispo County Fire.

Chief Jenkins has an extensive local government background and has been involved in the development of six cooperative fire protection agreements between the state and local agencies. He has significant experience in emergency incident management and a strong background and commitment to fire prevention and public education, having spent 8 years as Assistant Chief / Fire Marshal.

Chief Jenkins has committed his life to public service and is honored to be entrusted with protecting the lives and property of the residents of our county and state.