Interim Fire Chief Ronnie Villanueva Shares His Journey - and His Vision For The LAFD
Los Angeles Fire Department Interim Fire Chief Ronnie Villanueva shares his journey of returning to serve Angelenos. A veteran firefighter, Villanueva tells us what it means to lead the LAFD after more than four decades of service.
Appointed Interim Fire Chief on February 21, 2025, Chief Villanueva brings over 40 years of LAFD experience, having served in assignments across the city and risen through the ranks from Firefighter to Chief Deputy of Emergency Operations. His career includes leadership roles at Drill Tower 89, the Community Liaison Office, Homeland Security, and the Port of Los Angeles.
A strong advocate for professional growth, he holds an Executive Master’s Degree in Leadership from USC, a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Studies from CSULB, and is a graduate of the LAFD Leadership Academy. He has also completed advanced training at the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service and serves as a Principal on the NFPA’s Firefighter Safety and Health committee, helping shape safety standards nationwide.
After retiring in 2024, Chief Villanueva has returned to lead with integrity, vision, and a deep commitment to public safety.
