Nuvision Heroes: Honoring Captain Andrew Mackie, Marine Safety Division

Some heroes don’t wear badges—they carry rescue gear and watch over our beaches. This month, in honor of National First Responders Day, we’re proud to feature Captain Andrew Mackie - Marine Safety Captain of the Year from the Huntington Beach Marine Safety Division. Since joining the department in 2003, Andrew has dedicated himself to keeping the coast safe and inspiring the next generation of lifeguards. From lifesaving rescues to leading critical training programs, his commitment to public safety and mentorship has left a lasting impact on the community of Huntington Beach.

Andrew Mackie’s journey with the Huntington Beach Marine Safety Division began in 2003, but his connection to the beach and lifeguarding runs much deeper. As a child, Andrew spent four years as a Huntington City Beach Junior Lifeguard, which sparked his passion for ocean safety. After graduating from Marina High School, he pursued a degree in Geography at Humboldt State University while continuing his lifeguarding career. Over the years, Andrew rose through the ranks from Ocean Lifeguard to Senior Ocean Lifeguard, eventually becoming a Marine Safety Captain.

Captain Mackie’s current role involves more than just overseeing beach safety—he plays a critical part in mentoring and training the next generation of lifeguards. He serves as the Marine Safety Dive Team Coordinator and Wildlife Liaison, while also leading both the Supervising Ocean Lifeguard Training Academy and the Rapid Diver Unit Training Academy. His commitment to passing down his skills and knowledge is unmatched, making him a cornerstone of the Huntington Beach Marine Safety Division.

When reflecting on his career, Andrew shared, “The thing I love most about my job is helping people, from members of the public to our own staff.” This passion for service extends beyond the beach, where Andrew's influence has shaped the lives of countless lifeguards under his mentorship. From deckhand training to ocean rescue, he has been instrumental in preparing lifeguards to tackle the challenges of their roles with confidence and skill.

One of the most remarkable moments in Andrew’s career came in the summer of 2015 when he was awarded the Medal of Bravery and Unit Commendation for an extraordinary rescue. These awards highlight his courage and unwavering commitment to keeping people safe in the water, even in the most dangerous conditions.

Beyond his professional achievements, Andrew values his family deeply. He’s married to his wife, Logan, and they share a 2-year-old daughter, Lily. The family, along with their Miniature Pinscher named Finly, enjoys traveling to warm beaches, where Andrew can indulge in his love for surfing, fishing, diving, and hunting. For Andrew, this balance of family, nature, and service is what keeps him grounded and inspired.

As we recognize Captain Andrew Mackie for his incredible contributions to the Huntington Beach community, we are reminded that the strength of our first responders comes not only from their skills but from their heart and dedication to serving others. Andrew’s legacy of mentorship and his passion for helping people ensure that the next generation of lifeguards will be just as committed to safety as he has been.

Nuvision Credit Union is proud to honor Captain Mackie as part of our Nuvision Heroes series, celebrating his lifelong dedication to water safety and public service.