Andy Gryzwa, Fire Chief

Board Member

Andrew (Andy) Gryzwa began his public safety career in 1984 as a Firefighter with Cal Fire before joining the La Habra Fire Department, where he rose through the ranks from Firefighter/Paramedic to Battalion Chief/Paramedic. Over his distinguished career, Andy also served as Arson Investigator, Fire Marshal, and Chief Investigator of the Arson Unit with the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

Alongside his fire service, Andy served in law enforcement with the La Habra Police Department as a full-time Police Officer and later as a Designated Level 1 Reserve Officer until 2015. His assignments included Patrol, Traffic, Narcotics, Property Crimes, and service on the Warrant Entry and SWAT Teams as a Tactical (TEMS) Paramedic.

Following his retirement from L.A. County Fire, Andy became Fire Chief and Fire Academy Director at Rio Hondo College and currently serves as Fire Chief for the Running Springs Fire Department.

Having served in both fire and police service, Andy has witnessed firsthand the toll of trauma, loss, and cumulative stress on first responders. He has lost colleagues to PTSD and job-related injuries and remains deeply committed to supporting responder wellness. Andy believes Gaits to Healing plays a vital role in addressing the emotional and physical pain experienced by those who serve, helping save first responder lives through acknowledgment, support, and treatment.