Interim Fire Chief Ronnie Villanueva’s ability to lead, inspire, and build collaboration throughout EOPS. For nearly 41 years, Chief Villanueva has served the LAFD and earned the ranks of Firefighter, Engineer, Captain I, Captain II, Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief, and Deputy Chief. Chief Villanueva has also worked in various field assignments throughout the city, from South Los Angeles to the East Valley.
Aside from his professional accomplishments, Chief Villanueva has long believed in formal education and vocational training. He completed his Executive Master’s Degree in Leadership from the University of Southern California in 2022. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Occupational Studies from California State University at Long Beach and is a graduate of the LAFD Leadership Academy. Additionally, he has completed training at the Southern California Sea-based Defense Support of Civil Authorities, Enhanced Incident Management, and Unified Command Courses at the Texas A&M Extension School (TEEX). His extensive education and professional experience allow Chief Villanueva to sit as a Principal on the National Fire Protection Association technical committee on Firefighter Safety and Health, which has been used to enhance firefighter safety not only in the LAFD, but within the fire service.