Felipe Hernandez Jr. Named New Fire Chief, Alexandria's First Latino Fire Chief

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Felipe Hernandez Jr. has been appointed as the next fire and EMS chief in Alexandria, making him the city's first Latino permanent fire chief.

City Manager James Parajon announced the appointment of Hernandez after a national executive recruitment effort. He will start the position on Monday, July 8.

Chief Hernandez impressed our team with his experience and technical competence in fire and emergency medical service," said Parajon in a statement. "He brings a modern, data-driven approach to public safety. But most importantly, Chief Hernandez knows that strong relationships with good people will ensure we continue to grow and thrive as an organization."

Hernandez has worked in fire service for over 25 years and was previously fire chief in the City of Rochester, New York. He retired from Rochester in 2023 before serving as superintendent of the New York State Academy of Fire Science. Hernandez began his career as a firefighter in Rochester and went on to have leadership positions in the fire department's administrative, operations, training, and emergency management divisions, working on recruitment, volunteer support and professional development.

Hernandez is a chief fire officer designated by the Commission on Professional Credentialing and a national emergency medical technician. He has more certifications in fire officer instruction, health, and incident safety, a master’s degree in leadership from Nazareth College and a bachelor's degree in business administration and management from State University of New York, Brockport.

Former Alexandria Fire Chief Corey Smedley announced he would retire effective Jan. 12. James Schwartz has been serving as interim fire chief since Smedley's retirement. Schwartz, an Alexandria resident, had previously retired after serving as Arlington County's deputy county manager for public safety and technology and spending 32 years with the Arlington County Fire Department, including 11 years as chief.

"We cannot thank Chief Schwartz enough for his unwavering commitment to Alexandria," said Parajon. "Chief Schwartz came out of retirement to assist us because he loves the City, the fire and emergency medical services and the department. We are extremely grateful to him for his guidance, wisdom, and support as we continue to move forward."