Earlier this month, the City of Mountain View concluded its nationwide search for a new Fire Chief with the promotion of Deputy Fire Chief Juan F. Diaz. Chief Diaz had been serving in the interim role since the retirement of Brad Wardle in May and his appointment to the top position became effective on September 13th.
With nearly 27 years of firefighting experience in almost every role and 26 of those years serving the San José Fire Department, Chief Diaz stood out as the ideal successor to Chief Wardle. He began his fire service career in the mid ‘80s following his immigration from Cuba as a refugee in 1980. “I’m living the dream, being able to go to school in America and getting into the fire service,” said Chief Diaz in a statement. “My dad always said the U.S. is what you put into it: You work hard and you’ll get ahead.”
“Playing a small role in helping Chief Diaz advance his career brought unique gratification to our team,” stated Teri Black, CEO of Teri Black & Company, LLC, the executive search firm specializing in local government placements. “Juan has an incredible personal story that is so inspiring and his history contributes a rare richness and authenticity to his leadership style. He’s one of the strongest heart centered leaders I’ve ever interviewed.”
Chief Diaz earned his Bachelor’s degree Fire Science and Emergency Management from Kaplan University.
