Matthew Lopez

Background

About Matthew Lopez

Matthew Lopez has over 28-years of experience as an emergency services first responder and safety professional. As a Chief Officer, in an organization of nearly 1400-employees, he has led many initiatives for the agency. As a former Program Manager in multiple Training Division positions, Matthew oversaw the transition of initial certification and continuing educational training programs that improved the service delivery model for the agency while emphasizing the improved skills development and delivery for all providers. As a Safety Program Manager he oversaw the health, safety and wellness of all uniformed employees and volunteers. His experience includes managing budgetary audits, identification and implementation of cost efficiencies and bringing together divergent groups to focus on mission critical solutions. Since beginning the fire service, Matthew has been an active member of his labor union holding both elected and appointed positions. His experience includes representing rank and file employees, negotiating contracts, adjudicating grievances and lobbing elected officials for legislative changes. This has taught him the value of working on labor-management initiatives, viewing issues from multiple sides and seeking out solutions to identified problems. In 1993, Matthew received his Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from Saint Michael’s College. In 2003, he received a Master's of Science in Union Leadership and Administration from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. In 2019, he received a Master's of Science in Safety, Security and Emergency Management from Eastern Kentucky University. In August 2021, Matthew was awarded the Chief Fire Officer credential, in February 2022, the Chief Training Officer credential and in June 2022, the Chief Emergency Medical Services Officer credential through the Center for Public Safety Excellence. In March 2023 he became certified as an Associate Safety Professional through the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. He has been certified as a Nationally Registered Paramedic for over 26-years. Matthew is a member of multiple fire related and community service groups. He holds leadership positions as President of the Fairfax Hispanic Firefighters Association, President of the Northern Virginia Firefighters’ Emerald Society Pipe Band, President of the Firefighters’ Fund of Fairfax County, Board member of Northern Virginia Labor Federation (NoVa Labor) AFL-CIO and and Secretary of the Winter Forest Home Owner’s Association.