After an eight-month nationwide search for a new fire division chief, Gilroy Fire Department Chief Alan Anderson recently announced that Mary Gutierrez, formerly with the San Jose Fire Department, will serve Gilroy beginning Oct. 1.
“Chief Gutierrez brings exceptional fire ground experience, program management and interpersonal communication skills to our management team,” Anderson said, adding that Gutierrez is a state-certified fire officer, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and Society and has an associate degree in fire science.
Gutierrez emerged from the recruiting process as the top candidate and completed background and physical requirements. She will be assigned to the Emergency Medical Services Division and will manage the department’s “A” platoon, Anderson said.
“I look forward to serving in the community in which my husband and I have chosen to call home,” Gutierrez said in a press release. “The Gilroy Fire Department is recognized throughout the region as an excellent organization and I am excited to be joining the team.”
Gutierrez will replace former fire division chief Phil King, who retired in December 2013.
