Michael Velasquez

Michael Velasquez is a public safety and utility emergency management executive with 40+ years of leadership in fire service, all-hazard incident response, utility emergency preparedness, training, and interagency coordination. Proven record leading complex operations, building public safety partnerships, and developing practical training programs that strengthen emergency response at the field and executive levels. Key accomplishments include serving as Safety Officer and Liaison Officer on Type 1 CAL FIRE and U.S. Coast Guard Homeland Security Incident Management Teams; developing advanced utility incident management curriculum for PG&E; and joining PG&E after the San Bruno gas explosion as one of its first Senior Public Safety Specialists. Recognized with the Governor’s California Medal of Valor and appointed to the California EMS Commission by the State Senate. Velasquez currently serves as Associate Partner with Utility Response and Training Associates LLC and instructor with the Industrial Emergency Council, advising on emergency management, utility response, and fire protection planning. Provides civic leadership as a board director and nonprofit president supporting public safety, emergency preparedness, and community services. At Pacific Gas & Electric Company, led public safety partnerships and outreach from 2011 to 2017, representing the company at emergency incidents, delivering utility safety training to first responders, and strengthening coordination with Cal OES and local, state, and federal response agencies. As Deputy Fire Chief of Operations for the North County Fire Authority and San Mateo City Fire Department, directed fire suppression, EMS, training, prevention, leadership development, and operational readiness for multi-agency fire service organizations. Velasquez built a 30-year CAL FIRE career in progressive operational and command roles, including Assistant Chief, Battalion Chief, Fire Captain, Engineer/Paramedic, and Firefighter, with assignments spanning operations, fire prevention and law enforcement, training, helitack, and emergency response. Certifications and specialized training include PG&E Manager Leadership Academy, California State Fire Training Instructor credentials for ICS-300/400, All-Hazards Operations Section Chief and Safety Officer training, CSTI emergency management instruction, Type 1 IMT Safety Officer and Liaison Officer experience, Confined Space Operations, Peace Officer POST retirement status, Range Master certification, Paramedic certification, Lifetime Community College Teaching Credential in Health and Fire Science, and Hazardous Materials Technician training. Velasquez brings a rare combination of field-tested command experience, utility emergency management expertise, and trusted public safety relationships to help organizations prepare, respond, and lead effectively during complex incidents.