The administrative team manages the department, collects and analyzes data, strategically plans for the future, and plans and manages the budget. Administration works closely with the Avondale Professional Firefighters Association Local 3924 on decision-making and tackling tomorrow’s challenges.

Questions? Contact us at EmailFireDepartment@avondaleaz.gov

      Larry Rooney, Fire Chief

Chief Larry Rooney has been involved in the fire service for over 40 years. He started as a Reserve Firefighter for the Huntington Beach (CA) Fire Department, worked his way through the ranks to Deputy Chief for the Peoria (AZ) Fire Department, served as Fire Chief for the Lodi (CA) Fire Department, and came to Avondale in 2017. Chief Rooney holds an Associate Degree from Orange Coast College, an Associate in Science in Fire Technology from Santa Ana College. He received his bachelor’s in science from Grand Canyon University in Public Safety Administration and obtained his master’s degree with Distinction in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. In addition to his formal education, Chief Rooney completed the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program (EFO), has earned the distinction of Chief Fire Officer (CFO) from the Center for Public Safety Excellence, and was awarded a fellowship to attend the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Chief Rooney is also a Certified Public Manager (CPM) from Arizona State University and in 2001 was inducted in the Arizona Fire Service Hall of Fame for his contributions to the state fire service. 

       Justin Ernst, Assistant Chief - Operations

Assistant Chief Justin Ernst began his career with the Avondale Fire & Medical in 2005. Chief Ernst has promoted through the ranks to include serving on the Technical Rescue Team and he has managed several programs within the department to include special operations, Paramedic development, and service on multiple committees. He has earned three Associate’s Degrees and a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration from Northern Arizona University. He has worked in every operational capacity as a Firefighter, Engineer, Captain and Battalion Chief before being promoted to Assistant Fire Chief in 2023.

      Dave Wagner, Assistant Chief-Support Services 

Assistant Chief Dave Wagner  has been with Avondale Fire and Medical since 1996 and was promoted from Battalion Chief to Assistant Fire Chief in June of 2023. Dave served in the United States Marine Corps and worked with the US Forest Service on an Initial Attack Crew prior to joining Avondale as a reserve firefighter.  He was hired as a full-time firefighter in 1998 and worked his way up the ranks as Firefighter, Paramedic, Engineer, Flight Paramedic, Captain, and served almost 11 years as a Battalion Chief.  As a Battalion Chief he also has served as the coordinator for Avondale Fire and Medical’s wildland firefighting program and coordinator for the School Mentorship program. Dave holds an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science from Phoenix College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University.  

       Aaron Glass, Deputy Chief- Emergency Manager

Deputy Chief Aaron Glass grew up in Tucson, Arizona and moved to the Phoenix area working as a Geological Engineer in 1992. He joined Avondale Fire & Medical as a Reserve Firefighter in 1996 and was hired full-time in 1998. He has promoted through the ranks during his career and currently serves as the City's emergency manager. His education includes a Bachelor's Degree in Geological Engineering from the University of Arizona, and a Master’s degree in Leadership with an Emphasis on Disaster Preparedness from Grand Canyon University. Chief Glass also completed the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program (EFO) and has earned the distinction of credentialed Chief Fire Officer (CFO) from the Center for Public Safety Excellence and the Commission on Professional Credentialing.

       Scott Miller, Fire Marshal

Fire Marshal Scott Miller has over 30 years of experience in the fire service having spent 20 of those in fire prevention. Raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, Scott began his career as a Firefighter/EMT with the Warren Township Fire Department, which later merged into the Indianapolis Fire Department in 2007. In 2004, he relocated to the Valley and transitioned his focus to fire prevention. Prior to joining Avondale Fire and Medical, he spent 15 years at the Glendale Fire Department's Fire Marshal's office, progressing through various roles before eventually assuming the position of Assistant Fire Marshal. His extensive background includes the ICC, IFSAC, State of Indiana Fire      Inspector II, IAAI FIT, AZIAAI Fire Investigator I-V, IFSAC, and State of Indiana Fire Investigator I, and State of Indiana Firefighter I and II.

Battalion Chief Steve Mayhew was born and raised in Ukiah, California. After High School, he enlisted in The United States Marine Corps, serving stateside and abroad. After four years, he was honorably discharged and continued his public service as a firefighter for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection for five years. He was assigned to Howard Forest Helitack, fighting wildfire throughout the state of California while attending college in the off-season. He obtained an Associates Degree from Mendocino Community College before moving to Arizona. In 2007, he was hired by the City of Avondale as a firefighter working through each rank to the position of Battalion Chief in 2023. He is a Certified Paramedic and serves as a member of The Avondale Type III All Hazards Incident Management Team. Steve is the "A" Shift Commander and is the Wildland Team Coordinator. 

       Evan Titterington, Battalion Chief

Battalion Chief Evan Titterington was hired at Avondale Fire & Medical in 2004 and has promoted through the ranks while also serving as a Paramedic, Technical Rescue Technician, Threat Liaison Officer, and Recruit Training Officer for several recruit academies. He promoted to Battalion Chief in 2019. He holds two Associate’s Degrees in Paramedicine and Fire Operations and a Bachelor’s Degree in Government Administration from Grand Canyon University. He is currently assigned as the B-Shift Battalion Chief where he oversees the operations of all personnel assigned to his shift. 

       Freddy Cruz, Battalion Chief

Battalion Chief Freddy Cruz was hired at Avondale Fire and Medical in 1999 and has promoted through the ranks while also serving as a Paramedic, Technical Rescue Technician, Threat Liaison Officer, and Recruit Training Officer. He promoted to Battalion Chief in 2023 after 18 years as a successful Captain in the department. Chief Cruz grew up in the City of Avondale attending Avondale Schools, playing west valley sports, and giving back to the community through volunteer work. He prides himself in working as a team and has a heart for service to the community. Chief Cruz has supported youth in Avondale through mentorship and is currently overseeing the Technical Rescue Team. He is currently assigned as the C-Shift Battalion Chief.

      Garry Siler, Battalion Chief- EMS & Training 

Battalion Chief Garry Siler began his career with Avondale Fire and Medical in    2004.  Chief Siler is a certified paramedic, technical rescue technician, and health safety officer. He has served in every capacity including Firefighter, Engineer, Captain, and Training Captain before promoting to Battalion Chief. He has earned Associate's Degrees in Fire Science and Paramedicine through Glendale Community College, and his Bachelors degree in Applied Business Management through Grand Canyon University. He is currently assigned as the Battalion Chief of EMS and Training.

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