Fire Chief Michael Smith serves as the Fire Chief of the Bonita-Sunnyside Fire Protection District, where he leads the District’s dedicated firefighters and staff in providing emergency response, fire prevention, emergency medical services, and community risk reduction to the residents of Bonita and surrounding communities.
Chief Smith’s fire service journey began in high school through a Regional Occupational Program (ROP) in Fire Service and Emergency Medical Care, which led him to the Explorer Program with the San Miguel Fire Protection District. After earning his EMT certification and later his paramedic license through Southwestern College, he worked as a paramedic throughout San Diego County before joining the Bonita-Sunnyside Fire Protection District in 2006. During his career with the District, he has served as a Firefighter/Paramedic, Captain, Deputy Chief, and Fire Chief.
Chief Smith has remained actively involved in firefighter education and professional development, serving as an instructor for Southwestern College, Miramar College, the Regional Cooperative Care Program (RCCP), and the Heartland Training Facility. He has also taught and presented at fire service conferences and training events across the United States. He holds an Associate of Science degree in Fire Protection Systems and a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Administration.
His regional leadership includes serving as Chair of both the Central Zone Training Officers Committee and Central Zone Operations Committee, Treasurer of the San Diego County Training Officers Association, and currently Secretary of the San Diego County Fire Chiefs Association.
As Fire Chief, Smith is committed to providing exceptional service to the community while fostering a culture of professionalism, integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement. He values strong partnerships, well-trained personnel, and a commitment to service as the foundation of a progressive and trusted fire department.