Nuvison hero: Huntington Beach Firefighter of the Year Drew DiPaola

When Captain Drew DiPaola was named Firefighter of the Year, his first reaction wasn’t pride—it was surprise.

“We have so many people who deserve it,” he said. “I didn’t even think I was a contender.”

That humility says a lot about who he is. For Drew, firefighting has always been about teamwork, training, and stepping up when others need you most.

A Path Forged from Family and Early Lessons

Drew’s first connection to the fire service came through his grandfather, a retired Chicago firefighter. He remembers visiting and being fascinated by the old gear and stories.

The spark really caught in high school. For his senior project, he shadowed a firefighter for a day—and the first call was a serious crash requiring the Jaws of Life and a helicopter rescue.

“That was my introduction,” he said. “It was intense. I knew right then—I wanted to be part of something like that.”

After a year at Cal State, he earned his EMT certification, put himself through paramedic school, and volunteered until he was hired full-time in 2009 by a small Los Angeles County department. Seven years later, he joined Huntington Beach Fire Department, where he’s served since 2016.

A Career Built on Service and Leadership

Over the years, Drew has worn a lot of helmets—firefighter-paramedic, SWAT medic, hazmat team member, and now truck captain at one of Huntington Beach’s busiest stations.

“As a firefighter, you’re hands-on,” he said. “As a captain, you step back and guide. You set the plan, you build your crew’s confidence, and you make sure they’re ready. Seeing them handle a call you just trained for—that’s one of the most rewarding parts.”

Moments That Stay With You

Some calls fade. Others don’t.

He still remembers the Palisades Fire, where he and his crew spent two weeks protecting homes from the advancing flames. “Every house we were assigned to protect was still standing afterward,” he said. “Amid all that devastation, it felt good to know we made even a small difference.”

Then there’s the morning in 2020 when he rescued a young woman from a burning car on his way to work.

“I wasn’t on duty,” he said. “I just happened to have my gear. The car was already on fire. I remember thinking, if I don’t get her out now, she’s not going to make it.”

He pulled her free moments before the vehicle was fully engulfed. She survived with minor injuries.

“You don’t think—you just act,” he said.

Turning Lessons Into Lifesaving Change

Beyond calls, Drew helped launch Trauma for Teachers, a program that placed Stop the Bleed kits in every Huntington Beach high school classroom and trained teachers how to use them.

It started when he realized schools were being taught lifesaving techniques but didn’t have the supplies to use them. He partnered with a local student, secured donations and grants, and built community support to make it happen.

“Hopefully those kits are never used,” he said. “But they’ll be there long after I’m gone.”

Advice for the Next Generation

Drew’s road to the fire service wasn’t quick or easy. “I probably took 30 tests up and down California before I got hired,” he said. “You just have to stick with it.”

He encourages future firefighters to stay determined. “It’s not easy, but if this is what you want to do, there’s a place for you,” he said. “Keep going.”

The Heart of the Job

Ask Drew what defines the fire service, and he won’t talk about medals or titles. He’ll talk about moments of kindness—like the crew that bought a heater for an elderly woman whose broke during winter.

“Every day, someone does something small that makes a big difference,” he said. “That’s the kind of thing I love about this job. You do it because you care about people.”

Honoring First Responders This Month

Each October, we celebrate National First Responders Day by highlighting the people who put service above self. Captain Drew DiPaola is one of many who remind us what dedication looks like—showing up, leading with heart, and making a difference where it matters most.

Through our Nuvision Heroes series, we’re proud to share their stories and say thank you to every first responder who keeps our communities safe.