| <img alt="" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/EditForm/CHIEF%20O%27BRIEN.jpg" width="333" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=20 | Deputy Chief
LA County Fire Department
1320 N. Eastern Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90063 | <div class="ExternalClass71622B14B0BA4A2D94D4CDE666F523ED"><div>Chair<br></div><div><br></div>Los Angeles County Fire Department
</div> | <div class="ExternalClass0AFDCF18CF21401FA93226E47F627977"><p>Deputy Fire Chief Jon O'Brien has worked as a fire service professional for over 26 years. He started his career as a volunteer firefighter with the City of Sierra Madre. After graduating from high school, he completed paramedic training at the Los Angeles County Paramedic Training Institute and was hired by the City of Monrovia as a full-time firefighter/paramedic until he joined the County of Los Angeles in 1999.<br></p><p>Chief O'Brien has served in several operational and administrative assignments, promoting through the ranks to his current position as a Deputy Fire Chief. Along the way, he has worked as a flight medic in the Department's Air Operations Section, a fire crew supervisor in the Camps Section, a recruit training captain, and a field battalion chief.</p><p>In April 2014, Chief O'Brien was assigned to the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Bureau and was responsible for the education and training of the Department's 3,200 emergency medical technicians and 1,250 paramedics. The following year in November 2015, Chief O'Brien was promoted again to Assistant Fire Chief and assigned to Division VI in the Central Region. In July 2017, he returned as the Acting Deputy Fire Chief to the EMS Bureau and later officially promoted to Deputy Fire Chief in December 2017.</p><p>Chief O'Brien was assigned as the deputy fire chief of the North Regional Operations Bureau in April 2020. He oversees the cities of Palmdale, Lancaster, Santa Clarita, and La Cañada Flintridge as well as the Technical Operations Unit and Air & Wildland Division of the Department. He is the incident commander of the Department's Incident Management Team 1.</p><p>Chief O'Brien received his Associate of Arts degree in fire science at Mount San Antonio Community College and his Bachelor of Science degree in public policy and management at the University of Southern California. He currently represents the Department on the FIRESCOPE Operations Team and the Los Angeles County Measure B Advisory Committee.<br><br></p><p><br></p></div> | mailto:jon.obrien@fire.lacounty.gov | Jon O'Brien | |
| | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=34 | Assistant Director
USFS-FAM Southern California GACC
23300 Castle Street
Riverside, CA 92518
| <div class="ExternalClass6A57B17A19884C82B936A68706E6738E"><div>Vice-Chair<br></div><div><br></div><div>USDA Forest Service</div></div> | <div class="ExternalClassC92EEFDB699C49FBBDD1EC03A56C5C74"><p><br><br></p></div> | mailto: matthew.ahearn@usda.gov | Matt Ahearn | |
| <img alt="" height="268" src="/PublishingImages/Chief%20Steers%20Ops%20Team.png?RenditionID=1" width="206" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=269 | Deputy Fire Chief
Kern County Fire Department
5642 Victor Street
Bakersfield, CA 93308 | <div class="ExternalClassDC5270952DAF4F57945A3EA64C8E6B14">Secretary<br></div><div class="ExternalClassDC5270952DAF4F57945A3EA64C8E6B14"><br></div><div class="ExternalClassDC5270952DAF4F57945A3EA64C8E6B14">Kern County Fire Department</div> | <div class="ExternalClass94EA5A373DAF46E7A6235363B2861926"><p></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Division Chief Billy Steers has served in the fire service for over 30 years. Chief Steers was appointed to Kern County Fire Department in 2001. Chief Steers has served the citizens of Kern County as a Firefighter, Engineer, Captain, Battalion Chief, and promoted to Division Chief in August of 2021. The first 11 years of his service started with the US Forest Service on the Sequoia National Forest where he was a member of engines and the last 7 years on the Fulton Interagency Hotshot Crew. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Through Chief Steers career, he has obtained a multitude of all hazard fire qualifications in operations. Since 2008, he has been involved with incident management teams and has served as a Type 1 Operations Section Chief for California Incident Management Team 1. Chief Steers currently serves as the Association of Contract County Representative to the CWCG Operations Team. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In September of 2021, Chief Steers was selected by Fire Chief Aaron Duncan to replace retiring Chief Peshkin to serve on FIRESCOPE Ops Team. Being associated with such a prestigious organization is one of Chief Steers greatest honors where he works proudly alongside a talented group of fire service professional.</p><p>During his time away from work, Chief Steers enjoys spending time with his wife of 25 years and three adult children. He enjoys mountain biking, camping, and fishing adventures in Baja. <br></p><p><br></p></div> | mailto:bsteers@kerncountyfire.org | Bill Steers | |
| <img alt="Chief James Johnstone" height="240" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/Chief%20James%20Johnstone.png" width="192" style="BORDER:0px solid;MARGIN:5px 5px;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=24 | Deputy Chief
Cal OES
Fire and Rescue Division
23300 Castle Street
Riverside, CA 92518 | <div class="ExternalClassCC8C74F354324500A5469E71CD386A71"><div>Cal OES</div></div> | <div class="ExternalClass88896076EC98429B9905CFEC979EF8FB"><p>Chief Johnstone served 33 years with the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District. He began his career as a Paid Call Firefighter in 1984 and worked all suppression ranks up to the Deputy Chief level. He served as the Deputy Chief of Operations for the District overseeing the operations of 6 regional Divisions as well as the Training/Special Operations Division. In May of 2017, Jim accepted the FIRESCOPE Coordinator position as a Deputy Chief with Cal OES Fire & Rescue. While serving with San Bernardino County Fire, he served on the FIRESCOPE Operations Team as the Region VI Representative for three years. </p><p>Jim earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Administration from the University of California, Riverside and served as a paramedic for 21 years. He is a state certified Heavy Rescue Specialist and served as US&R Regional Task Force 6 Manager for San Bernardino County Fire. He was also a member of the Federal Southern California Incident Management Team #2 where he served as a Division Supervisor for 7 years and an Operations Section Chief for 3 years. </p><p>Jim has been married to his high school sweetheart - Bridgett for 39 years and they reside in Lake Arrowhead, California. Jim and Bridgett have 7 grown children and 6 grandkids. Jim's personal passion is spending adventurous time with his family.</p></div> | mailto:james.johnstone@caloes.ca.gov | James Johnstone | |
| <img alt="" height="190" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/EditForm/Chief%20Counts.jpg" width="190" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=439 | Staff Chief Operations
CAL FIRE
715 P Street
Sacramento, CA 95814 | <div class="ExternalClass52E1D8711691414BAF5F3C3D53DC6D66"><p>CAL FIRE<br></p></div> | <div class="ExternalClass4374214B9D6A4B48B689097AD76201BB"><p style="text-align:justify;">Chief Counts is a 30-year veteran of the fire service. He started his career with CAL FIRE in the Amador El Dorado Unit as a Firefighter 1 and promoted through the ranks as an Engineer and Fire Captain working in a variety of assignments including the Cameron Park Fire Department Cooperative Agreement, the Camino Interagency Emergency Command Center, and Stations in central and northern El Dorado County. In 2014 Bob promoted to Battalion Chief in AEU at the Cameron Park Cooperative Schedule A agreement, and subsequently in 2017 transferred to Battalion 2 in AEU. In the Spring of 2019, Bob transferred to the Nevada Yuba Placer Unit and was assigned as a Battalion Chief in the Placer County Fire Department Cooperative Schedule A agreement serving Western Placer County. In January 2023 Bob promoted to Assistant Chief, East Division Operations of the Nevada Yuba Placer Unit overseeing three Field Battalions and Placer Center CCC Camp. In January 2025, Bob promoted to Staff Chief of Fire Protection Operations at CAL FIRE Sacramento Headquarters. As the Staff Chief of Fire Protection Operations, Bob oversees CAL FIRE's Incident Management Team program and chairs the Incident Management Team Committee. Bob is also a standing committee member on the California Wildfire Coordinating Group Operations committee and in January of 2026 was appointed to the FIRESCOPE Operations Committee. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Bob has been involved with CAL FIRE Incident Management Teams since 2013 holding the positions of Cost Unit Leader, Procurement Unit Leader, Deputy Finance Section Chief and was qualified as a Type 1 and CIM Incident Commander on CAL FIRE IMT4. Bob is currently a Liaison Officer on CAL FIRE IMT6. Bob has also held the positions of Finance Section Chief, Operations Section Chief and Incident Commander on the Sacramento Regional All Hazards Incident Management Team. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Bob has been on numerous instructional cadres throughout his career including C-300 Initial Attack Incident Commander, C-400 Extended Attack to Major Incident Commander, CAL FIRE ECC Academy, California ROSS Cadre, Firefighter Safety and Survival, Procurement Unit Leader, USFA O-305 All Hazards Incident Management, Complex Incident Management Course (CIMC) and All Hazards Incident Management (AIM). </p></div> | mailto: bob.counts@fire.ca.gov | Bob Counts | |
| <img alt="" src="/PublishingImages/silhouette.png" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=707 | Deputy Chief
4410 Cathedral Oaks Road 1676
Santa Barbara, CA 93101 | <div class="ExternalClassC804504C96E1417CA2CFE39AA40CB087"><p>Santa Barbara Fire Department<br></p></div> | <div class="ExternalClass8488D54FDB7542AA87DCE7C1A6154147"><p>Patrick has more than thirty years of experience in the fire service. He began his career in 1994 with the Bureau of Land Management as a member of the Diamond Mountain Hotshots. He later served with the Keene Flight Crew and the U.S. Forest Service Chester Helitack before joining the Kern County Fire Department full time in 1999. In 2001, Patrick joined the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, where he currently serves as Deputy Chief.<br></p><p>Throughout his career, Patrick has been an active participant on interagency incident management teams, serving for many years as a Division Supervisor. He has also contributed to both the Wildland and Aviation FIRESCOPE subcommittees. His career has provided opportunities to work across multiple disciplines, including operations, training, aviation, and wildland fire management. From 2016 to 2025, he served as Chair of the Santa Barbara County Wildland Steering Committee.</p><p>Patrick holds a bachelor's degree from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.</p><p>He has been married to his wonderful wife for 25 years and is the proud father of three amazing children. Patrick considers it a great honor and privilege to serve the California fire service in this capacity.<br></p><p><br></p></div> | mailto: pbyde@countyofsb.org | Patrick Byde | |
| <img alt="" src="/PublishingImages/silhouette.png?RenditionID=1" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=21 | Chief Deputy
Los Angeles Fire Department
200 North Main, Room 1860
Los Angeles, CA 90016 | <div class="ExternalClassDC9F153664674098A819B90DF41835CE"><div>Los Angeles Fire Department<br></div></div> | <div class="ExternalClass03875D53D91F446493D41C66BE82F4D3"><p style="text-align:justify;"></p><p>.</p><br></div> | mailto:vincent.alvarado@lacity.org | Vincent Alvarado | |
| <img alt="" src="/PublishingImages/silhouette.png" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=706 | Assistant Chief
Field Operations North
1 Fire Authority Road
Irvine, CA 92602 | <div class="ExternalClass6B38B3C56EA1499FA9439F741F3AB56E"><p>Orange County Fire Authority<br></p></div> | | mailto: baryichunter@ocfa.org | Baryic Hunter | |
| <img alt="" height="185" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/EditForm/Chief%20Scherrei.jpg" width="121" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=334 | Deputy Fire Chief
Ventura County Fire Department
2400 Conejo Spectrum Street
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320 | <div class="ExternalClass16346740A5CC478C8E87C26E179D8D2A"><p>Ventura County Fire Department<br></p></div> | <div class="ExternalClass8868C691F3C44FA2A109B3D4946FF655"><p style="color:#000000;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:medium;">Chief Chuck Scherrei has been with the Ventura County Fire Department since February 2004. He promoted to Battalion Chief in March 2020, then served as Assistant Chief of Operations from April 2022 until March 2026. Chief Scherrei is now stepping into the role of Deputy Chief, effective March 29, 2026.<br></p><p style="color:#000000;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:medium;">Chief Scherrei earned an Associate of Science in Fire Technology from Oxnard College and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. He is currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Safety Leadership at Arizona State University. His leadership is highlighted by accolades such as the CSAC Executive Credential, Engine Company of the Year (2018), and his participation in LAFD Leadership Academy Class 15-3.</p><p style="color:#000000;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:medium;"></p><p style="color:#000000;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:medium;">Chief Scherrei oversaw both the Engineer and Captain Promotional Processes before serving as the Wildland Chief, and then the Training Chief. Later as Operations Chief, he established guidelines for responding to Lithium-Ion battery fires, cancer prevention measures, an area-wide Mayday procedure and initiated the VCFD UAS Program.</p><p style="color:#000000;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:medium;">In March 2026, Chief Scherrei was selected by Fire Chief Dustin Gardner to replace retiring Chief Chad Cook to serve on the FIRESCOPE Ops Team. It is a tremendous honor to be asked to participate in such a foundational group of thought leaders.</p><p style="color:#000000;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:medium;">During his time away from work, Chief Scherrei enjoys spending time with his wife and their four grown children. He also enjoys fly-fishing in Montana, mountain biking, backpacking, and spending time with friends.<br></p><br></div> | mailto: chuck.scherrei@ventura.org | Chuck Scherrei | |
| | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=445 | Deputy Chief
Southern Marin Fire Protection District
28 Liberty Ship Way, STE 2800
Sausalito, CA 94965 | <div class="ExternalClassD75442727AFA4466BEE98A4427F6BFC4"><p>California Fire Chiefs Association<br></p></div> | | mailto: mbarnes@smfd.org | Matt Barnes | |
| <img alt="" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Chief%20Nishimoto.jpg?RenditionID=1&Width=100" width="100" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=31 | Deputy Chief
Alameda County Fire Department
6363 Clark Ave
Dublin, CA 94568 | <div class="ExternalClass083EA317F1304BA8B88070345FB52CDA"><div>Cal OES Mutual Aid II<br></div></div> | <div class="ExternalClass5B385B1BFC7B470A8809384D0E08C19A"><p></p><p>Ryan Nishimoto began his professional fire service career with the Daly City Fire Department in 2000 and has worked for the Alameda County Fire Department since 2002. He worked through the ranks as a Firefighter, Engineer, Captain, and Division Chief. His current assignment is the Deputy Chief of Operations. </p><p>Chief Nishimoto has an associate degree in fire science and a bachelor's degree in public administration. He's also a licensed paramedic and hazardous materials specialist who served on the CA-TF4 USAR Team and the East Bay Incident Management Team as a liaison officer. <br></p><p><br></p></div><p><br></p> | mailto: ryan.nishimoto@acgov.org | Ryan Nishimoto | |
| <img alt="" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/EditForm/Chief%20Heggstrom.png" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=26 | Fire Chief
Linda Fire Protection District
1286 Scales Avenue
Marysville, CA 95901 | <div class="ExternalClass14345A7A222E470E89B433E629F6FE63"><div>Cal OES Mutual Aid III</div></div> | <div class="ExternalClass821DAE17BF5C435BAC6CF4D2419A53EE"><h1><span style="font-size:24px;">Professional Background</span><br></h1><p style="text-align:justify;">Chief Heggstrom was appointed to the Linda Fire Protection District June 2004 at the age of 21. Chief Heggstrom has served the citizens of the Linda Fire Protection District for 20 years. Chief Heggstrom has held the ranks of Firefighter, Engineer, Captain, Battalion Chief, and was selected as Fire Chief April 2021. <br></p><h1><span style="font-size:24px;">Education and Accomplishments</span><br></h1><p style="text-align:justify;">Chief Heggstrom attended the Yuba College fire academy. Chief Heggstrom holds an Associate's degree in fire science, obtained from American Public University. Chief Heggstrom obtained his Fire officer certification from OSFM. Chief Heggstrom is a Fire investigator 1 and holds numerous certificates and specialized trainings. <br></p><h1><span style="font-size:24px;">Specialized Training</span></h1><p style="text-align:justify;">Chief Heggstrom is a registered instructor for California office of state fire training teaching numerous classes and is also certified as a Fire Investigator 1. Chief Heggstrom is a HAZMAT specialist and served as the operations lead for the Yuba Sutter regional HAZMAT team. Chief Heggstrom is a registered instructor teaching numerous classes. <br></p><h1 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-size:24px;">FIRESCOPE History</span></h1><p style="text-align:justify;">In February of 2018, Chief Heggstrom was selected by Fire Chief Richard Webb to serve on the FIRESCOPE Taskforce, representing Fire District North. Chief Heggstrom served as the primary liaison for the EMS Specialty group, and the Statewide Training Education Advisory Committee liaison. Chief Heggstrom is fortunate to continue his involvement with the FIRESCOPE Operations team representing Region III.<br></p><h1><span style="font-size:24px;">Interest</span></h1><p style="text-align:justify;">During his time away from work, Chief Heggstrom enjoys spending time with his family, hunting fishing and spending time outdoors. <br></p><p><br><br></p></div><p><br></p> | mailto:kyleh@lindafire.org | Kyle Heggstrom | |
| <img alt="" height="240" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/Chief%20Sheppard.jpeg?RenditionID=1" width="178" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=651 | Battalion Chief
North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District
222 Fairview Drive
P.O. Box 5879
Tahoe City, CA 96145 | <div class="ExternalClass424092D5D0004B6E87858F1495C72AF3"><p>Cal OES Mutual Aid IV<br></p></div> | <div class="ExternalClass998F838FC2CB48F895BCF0C76E62767A"><div>Jamie Sheppard is a Battalion Chief with the North Tahoe Fire Protection District, bringing over 23 years of dedicated service to the fire profession. He began his fire service career more than two</div><div>decades ago and has built a reputation for dependable leadership and operational excellence in both structural and wildland fire environments.<br></div><div><br></div><div>Chief Sheppard holds an Associate Degree in Fire Science and has served in a wide range of leadership roles including incident command, interagency coordination, and training development.</div><div>His experience and steady presence make him a trusted leader during complex incidents throughout the Lake Tahoe region.<br></div><div><br></div><div>Jamie lives in Truckee, California with his wife and two children. Outside of work, he enjoys snowmobiling, rafting, and just about anything that gets him into the outdoors. <br></div><div><br></div><div>A strong advocate for mentorship and teamwork, he continues to support the development of future leaders in the fire service.<br></div><div><br></div><div>He is excited to collaborate with FIRESCOPE and hopes to prove a valuable asset to its mission and ongoing initiatives.</div><p><br></p></div> | mailto: sheppard@ntfire.net | Jamie Sheppard | |
| <img alt="Chief Jeff McLaughin" height="240" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/Chief%20Jeff%20McLaughin.PNG" width="192" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=29 | Division Chief
Tulare County Fire
835 South Akers Street
Visalia, CA 93277 | <div class="ExternalClassB9FB3B3B53644E13A760753423D9E095"><div>County Fire Departments South<br></div></div> | <div class="ExternalClass193491168EFF49BE8EEE0B850012D526"><p></p><p>Jeff McLaughlin was appointed to the Tulare County Fire Department on May 28th, 2007, and previously worked for the City of Tehachapi Fire Department. Chief McLaughlin has served the citizens of Tulare County for the last 16 years and served in the fire service for a total of 21 years. Chief McLaughlin has held the ranks of Firefighter, Engineer, Captain, Battalion Chief, Division Chief, and most recently promoted to Deputy Fire Chief. Chief McLaughlin is currently assigned as the Deputy Fire Chief where he oversees all Divisions within the department.</p><p>Chief McLaughlin grew up in Kern County. He attended Tehachapi High School and later attended Bakersfield Junior College, where Chief McLaughlin earned an associate degree in Fire Science. Chief McLaughlin has been the recipient of various distinguished awards throughout his career. </p><p>Chief McLaughlin serves as the Tulare County Operational Area Coordinator Alternate and serves on various committees and groups in the fire service. Chief McLaughlin is a current team member of the Tulare County Type III Incident Management Team where he serves as the Operations Section Chief. </p><p>In June of 2019, Chief McLaughlin was selected by Fire Chief Charlie Norman to serve on the FIRESCOPE Operations Group. Being associated with such a prestigious organization is one of Chief McLaughlin's greatest honors where he works proudly alongside a talented group of fire service professionals. </p><p>During his time away from work, Chief McLaughlin enjoys spending time with his wife Roxanne and two children, Cade and Deegan, and close friends. He enjoys engaging in all types of outdoor activities including camping, fishing, and hunting. Chief McLaughlin is very proud of his profession but considers his greatest accomplishments in life to be his family.<span style="text-align:justify;"></span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span></p></div> | mailto:jemclaughlin@co.tulare.ca.us | Jeff McLaughlin | |
| <img alt="" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/Chief%20Harper.png?RenditionID=1" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=661 | Battalion Chief
Waterloo-Morada Fire District
6925 E. Foppiano Lane
Stockton, CA 95212 | <div class="ExternalClass670408787E994A15B3E45D32C101E1DD"><p>Fire Districts North<br></p></div> | <div class="ExternalClassE3331E478EC44B4EA40239E33D7FB1D9"><p>Battalion Chief Jason Harper started his fire service career just one week after graduating high school in 1993, working as a volunteer firefighter. In 2001, he was hired by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), where he further developed his skills and passion for public service. In 2003, Chief Harper joined the Waterloo-Morada Fire District in Stockton, California. Over the years, his dedication, leadership, and operational expertise earned him several promotions, leading to his current role as Battalion Chief.<br></p><p>A 1993 graduate of Lodi High School, Chief Harper continued his education at the junior college level before earning his Associate's Degree from Columbia Southern University. He is currently completing his Bachelor's Degree in Fire Administration. In addition to his operational leadership, Chief Harper represents the California Fire Chiefs Association on the Governor's Medal of Valor Committee, contributing to the recognition of extraordinary acts of bravery.</p><p>Chief Harper manages the Logistics Division for the Waterloo-Morada Fire District. He holds certifications as a California Fire Officer, Chief Officer, and Executive Fire Officer. Additionally, he serves as San Joaquin County's Operational Area Coordinator and is a qualified Strike Team Leader and Task Force Leader, ensuring preparedness and leadership during major incidents.</p><p>In July 2025, Chief Harper was appointed by Fire Chief Eric Walder, a current member of the FIRESCOPE Board of Directors, to fill the Fire District's North position on the FIRESCOPE Operations Team. Before this appointment, he brought his expertise as a member of the FIRESCOPE Communication Specialist Group, representing Fire District's North. Chief Harper values the opportunity to work alongside the state's most talented and respected fire service professionals in this esteemed organization.</p><p>Jason Harper lives in Shingle Springs, California, with his wife. They have three grown children and enjoy outdoor activities like camping, hiking, fishing, and sport shooting. While Chief Harper is very proud of his career and community service, he considers his greatest achievement to be his role as a dedicated husband and father.<br></p></div> | mailto: jharper@wmfire.org | Jason Harper | |
| <img alt="" height="259" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/Chief%20Serna.jpg?RenditionID=1" width="225" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=36 | Deputy Chief
San Bernardino County Fire Protection District
157 W 5th Street
San Bernardino, CA 92415 | <div class="ExternalClassA086E0CE4C634232B05DC8FFAF542868"><div>Fire Districts South<br></div></div> | <div class="ExternalClassF7758BA25B9B43869BA304280B300396"><p></p><p><br></p><p><br></p></div><p></p> | | Martin Serna | |
| <img alt="" height="270" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/Chief%20Taylor.jpg?RenditionID=1" width="170" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=635 | Deputy Chief
Sacramento Fire Department
5770 Freeport Blvd., Suite 200
Sacramento, CA 95822 | <div class="ExternalClass4355606246B44B1C90E889CCC1F9C7D0"><p>Large Cities North<br></p></div> | | mailto: mltaylor@sfd.cityofsacramento.org | Michael Taylor | |
| <img alt="" height="192" src="/PublishingImages/Chief%20Eddy.jpg?RenditionID=1" width="137" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=556 | Assistant Fire Chief
Emergency Operations
San Diego Fire-Rescue Department
600 B Street
San Diego, CA 92101 | <div class="ExternalClass4003668B2D0C4598AE8FC63049DE1693"><p>Large Cities South<br></p></div> | <div class="ExternalClass0D5EEB2C9F0B4E4F9E183B3850C46DAD"><p></p><p>Dan Eddy has 25 years of experience in the fire service, beginning his career in 1999 with the San Diego Fire Rescue Department. Chief Eddy serves as the Assistant Fire Chief of Emergency Operations. He oversees six divisions, including three Operations Divisions, Special Operations, Emergency Medical Services, and the Lifeguard Services Division, with a budget of approximately $360 million and 1,200 personnel. </p><p>Chief Eddy has held the ranks of Firefighter, Engineer, Captain, Battalion Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, and Assistant Fire Chief. Chief Eddy spent most of his career with the training and logistics divisions. He is a state-certified instructor in fire ground survival and fire behavior. Dan was an instructor for 16 fire academies and continued to teach as he progressed through his career. He ran the equipment division as an Engineer and was a lead Battalion Chief for the COVID-19 vaccine clinics. Chief Eddy works across the United States with fire departments to help implement training and promotional standards. Chief Eddy is a nationally certified Fireline leadership instructor. He has taught courses to firefighters worldwide, including in Mexico, Canada, and Saudi Arabia. </p><p>Chief Eddy has a bachelor's degree in human resource management. Master of Public Administration and certifications in public leadership, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from Rutgers University. He is a recent National Fire Service Staff and Command Course graduate from Annapolis, Maryland (Class of 2022). </p><p>Chief Eddy was born and raised in San Diego and is the proud father of three children with his wife, Ursula. He spends his free time surfing, biking, and coaching his kids in the North County. <br></p><p><br></p></div> | mailto: deddy@sandiego.gov | Dan Eddy | |
| <img alt="Chief Bob Neamy" height="241" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/Chief%20Bob%20Neamy.PNG" width="191" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=39 | Deputy Chief (Retired)
Los Angeles Fire Department
550 Highway 88
Gardnerville, NV 89460 | <div class="ExternalClassBF0B67ABBE474258861D19200E489916"><div>NIMS Consortium</div></div> | <div class="ExternalClass22B3D92B5F534BC9B44DBFAC50DCD7E2"><p>Retired Deputy Chief Robert Neamy was appointed to the Los Angeles Fire Department in October 1970. He served the City of Los Angeles for 33 years retiring in January of 2004. He held many different ranks in the Department retiring as second in Command as a Deputy Chief of Operations. He is the vice-president of the non-profit organization the National Incident Management Consortium (NIMSC) and continues to represent that organization currently. The NIMSC was authorized a position by the FIRESCOPE Board on the Operations Team since the late 1980's. </p><p>Retired Deputy Chief Neamy attended Anaheim High School and graduated from Santa Ana Jr. College and Fullerton Community College. Chief Neamy has represented the fire service on NFPA 1500, 1561, 1026 Committees for over 25 years. He has authored several ICS articles in fire service magazines. </p><p>Chief Neamy did many tours on special duty in the LAFD including, employee relations officer, department safety officer, department advocate, and conducted background/investigations of recruit candidates. As a deputy chief he was responsible for training subordinate officers in incident management and he also supervised the Department Operation Center (DOC) during emergency operations. He also responded to major incidents. Over his career, he has been a strike team leader, agency representative, being involved as a strike team leader during the 1992 Civil Disturbance in Los Angeles, and served as an Area Commander for large scale incidents such as the Northridge Earthquake. </p><p>In 1988, he was assigned by the Fire Chief to represent the LAFD on the FIRESCOPE Ops Team because of his background in the NFPA Committees, NIMSC, and in the use of ICS. He represented the LAFD on the OPS Team until retirement in 2004 </p><p>Currently, Chief Neamy is an adjutant instructor at Texas A&M in the TEEX's 314 Unified Command student instruction program. He teaches two positions in the class, Unified IC or Operations Section during the training exercises. He remains involved in the development of Model Procedure Guides in the NIMSC for fire service, law enforcement, and public works manuals. He is very active in the development and revisions of many NFPA Standards.</p></div> | mailto:buckaroo2bob@msn.com | Robert D. Neamy | |
| <img alt="" height="170" src="/PublishingImages/Chief%20Kaialoa.png" width="170" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=33 | San Francisco Fire Department
698 Second Street
San Francisco, CA 94107 | <div class="ExternalClassE3EC5395C80546169D1D8C4D4B9D2369"><div> Region II<br></div></div> | <div class="ExternalClassA2F6461858D440DF8E39E507F32C070C"><p><br><br></p></div><p></p> | mailto: shayne.kaialoa@sfgov.org | Shayne Kaialoa | |
| <img alt="" height="200" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/Chief%20Riley.jpg?RenditionID=1" width="259" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=446 | Deputy Chief, Operations
Anaheim Fire/Rescue Department
201 S. Anaheim Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92805 | <div class="ExternalClass5814051D4B1C412BBE60B7DEAD0A5726"><p>Small/Medium Cities South<br></p></div> | | mailto: griley@anaheim.net | Grant Riley | |
| <img alt="" height="210" src="/Governance/PublishingImages/Lists/Firescope%20Roster%20and%20Biography/Chief%20Vanlandingham.jpg?RenditionID=1" width="143" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=650 | Fire Chief
Redding Fire Department
777 W. Cypress Avenue
First floor
Redding, CA 96001 | <div class="ExternalClass6E9DEF9214CC4D92BD7736C9F458F1C8"><p>Small/Medium Cities North<br></p></div> | <div class="ExternalClass1FE501F27C484F64BE97B3393144B23E"><p><span style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;">Chief Vanlandingham was hired as the Fire Chief for the City of Redding Fire Department in October of 2020. Prior to that he served a 25 year career spanning back to 1995 in Longmont, Colorado for the Longmont Fire Department in Boulder County. He spent time</span><span style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;"> </span><span style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;">at the ranks of Firefighter, Lieutenant, Training Officer, Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief and Deputy Public Safety Chief overseeing the Fire Services Division within the Department of Public Safety.</span><br style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;"><br style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;"><span style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;">Chief Vanlandingham has served on numerous boards and commissions in Colorado and California. He currently serves as the Northern Division Area 1 Director of the California Fire Chiefs Association, President of the Shasta County Fire Chiefs Association, Chair</span><span style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;"> </span><span style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;">of the Board Shasta Communications Dispatch Center (SHASCOM), BOD Shield Public Safety Training Center, BOD Shasta Regional Medical Center and is a local Rotarian.</span><br style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;"><br style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;"><span style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;">He earned a Bachelor Degree in Communication from Abilene Christian University in TX, and an MBA from the University of Phoenix and holds the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Designation from the Center of Public Safety Excellence. Chief Vanlandingham has three grown</span><span style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;"> </span><span style="color:#242424;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:14.6667px;background-color:#ffffff;">sons in their twenties living their best lives in Colorado.</span><br></p></div> | mailto: jvanlandingham@cityofredding.org | Jerrod Vanlandingham | |
| <img alt="" height="371" src="/PublishingImages/Chief%20Henning.png?RenditionID=1" width="300" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=634 | Assistant Deputy Director
CAL FIRE - Office of the State Fire Marshal
P.O. Box 944246
Sacramento, CA 94244-2460
| <div class="ExternalClassB665654DDE8340C19CD32646B70A636C"><p>CAL FIRE - Office of the State Fire Marshal<br></p></div> | | mailto: andrew.henning@fire.ca.gov | Andrew Henning | |
| | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=38 | | <div class="ExternalClass4E5F2A7C920E41FC913B136CC5D9F913"><div>US Coast Guard</div></div> | | | Vacant | |
| | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=636 | US Department of Interior
Bureau of Land Management
Central California District
U.S. Dept. of the Interior, Regions 8 &10
35126 Mc Murtrey Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93308 | <div class="ExternalClassCDF89D57B98D49E0AE36F9C896999E1A"><p>U.S. Department of Interior </p><p>Bureau of Land Management<br></p></div> | <div class="ExternalClass55D37B86828440F6AE98D89F2525C841"><div>Chief Brinsfield was appointed to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Central California District (CND) Fire Program in May 1994, beginning his journey at the age of 28. With over 31 years of dedicated service to the CND Fire Program, he has advanced through various ranks, including Firefighter, Engineer, Captain, Battalion Chief, Division Chief, and Deputy Chief. On January 3, 2021, he was honored with the promotion to District Fire Management Officer (Fire Chief 6100).<br></div><div>A graduate of West High School, Chief Brinsfield furthered his education by earning a certificate in Biological Sciences for Federal Land Managers from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Throughout his distinguished career, he has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards at both the district and state levels.</div><div>Currently, Chief Brinsfield is serving on the FIRESCOPE Task Force for the second time. His previous participation from 2006 to 2007, along with his selection in 2020 by CA BLM's Scott Lucas to represent the Department of the Interior (DOI) agencies, speaks to his experience and commitment to excellence in fire management.</div><div>Outside of his professional responsibilities, Chief Brinsfield values spending quality time with his family, enjoying collegiate football games with his sons, and exploring new destinations with his fiancée. He takes great pride in his role as "Grandpa" and treasures the moments shared with all seven of his grandchildren.<br></div><p><br></p></div> | mailto: dbrinsfi@blm.gov | David Brinsfield | |
| <img alt="" height="308" src="/PublishingImages/Chief%20Bachmeyer.jpg" width="250" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | https://firescope.caloes.ca.gov/Governance/Lists/Firescope Roster and Biography/DispForm.aspx?ID=42 | Division Chief
Red Bluff Fire Dept.
555 Washington St., Suite C
Red Bluff, CA 96080 | <div class="ExternalClassE253BA2B66854756A92B5FAC87465996"><div>Volunteer Fire Departments</div></div> | <div class="ExternalClass4138F9B259ED4BD5ABFE48BEF28487A3"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Chief Bachmeyer started his fire service career right out of high school in 1996. During his career, Mike has served as a seasonal Firefighter and Engineer for CalFire, Division Chief of Prevention for the Redding Fire Department, and has held the positions of Reserve Firefighter, Engineer, Fire Marshal, and Division Chief for the Red Bluff Fire Department. Mike is currently assigned to the Training Division at the Red Bluff Fire Department.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">After graduation from Red Bluff High School, Mike attended Shasta College where he earned an Associates of Arts degree in Fire Technology in 2002. Mike returned to school earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Leadership from Simpson University in 2017.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Mike has achieved certification as a Fire Investigator, Fire Prevention Officer, Fire Protection Specialist, Plans Examiner, Fire Marshal, Instructor, Fire Officer, Company Officer, and Chief Officer by the California State Board of Fire Services. In addition, Mike is a Qualified Strike Team/Task Force Leader and Division/Group Supervisor. </p><p>In February of 2022, Chief Bachmeyer was honored to be selected by the FIRESCOPE Board of Directors to replace retiring Chief Ray Barber to serve as a member of the FIRESCOPE Operations Team. </p><p>Mike and his wife Jennie are life-long residents of the Red Bluff community and have been married since 2014. Together they have raised a blended family of four sons and two daughters, of which, five are now young adults starting their own adventures in life. Mike enjoys golfing, NASCAR, and the San Francisco Giants.<br></p><p><br></p></div> | mailto: mbachmeyer@rbfd.org | MIchael Bachmeyer | |
