Chief Deputy John Drake is the Commander overseeing Emergency Operations. He has served the Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) for more than 36 years in the ranks of Firefighter, Engineer, Captain I, Captain II, Battalion Chief, and Assistant Chief. Chief Drake’s vast assignments and education facilitated his successful execution of numerous professional development programs, strategic planning processes, and effective emergency operations.
Chief Drake’s contributions to the advancement of the Department’s mission also include diverse responsibilities, committees, and projects (e.g., LAFD “A Safer City” Strategic Plan, resource reconfiguration plans, and many collaborative, unified partnerships with our public safety partners and labor organizations).
Additionally, Chief Drake completed a doctorate in Public Sector Strategic Planning from the University of Southern California with a dissertation that provided the foundation for the LAFD’s first strategic plan. He has developed and instructed several promotional and leadership programs for the LAFD, Los Angeles Police Department, and various other public safety partners. As a proponent of civic responsibility, organizational commitment, and personal integrity, Chief Drake has been instrumental in influencing organizational direction and services.