Mount Rainier National Park has a new leader: Chip Jenkins, a 31-year veteran of the National Park Service (NPS), will serve as the park’s superintendent beginning in mid-March. He takes over for Randy King, who retired in January.
The Mountaineers enjoyed a strong relationship with Jenkins in his previous role as the NPS Pacific West Region deputy regional director. Jenkins, who began his career as a seasonal ranger at North Cascades, brings years of experience working with stakeholders in Washington State.
Jenkins joined The Mountaineers as a guest speaker at our 2016 Breakfast. He spoke to efforts underway to make our public lands more accessible to all people, highlighting programs that reach kids in communities that are increasingly diverse.
Most recently Jenkins was on assignment at Yosemite National Park. He’s looking forward to returning to the Evergreen State.
“Mount Rainier has always been a beacon of sorts for me,” Jenkins told The News Tribune, “When I see it, I know I’m home. And now that cannot be more true. I am honored to have the chance to work with the professional and passionate people who make Mount Rainier a magical place.”
The Mountaineers extends a warm welcome to Jenkins in his new role. We've ventured the into slopes and meadows of Mount Rainier for over a hundred years, and we’re excited to start the next chapter with Jenkins at the helm.