Joe Richardson Named Firefighter of Year

Joe Richardson Will be Presented His Award Today at City Council Meeting

CATHEDRAL CITY — Engineer Joe Richardson has been named the Cathedral City Fire Department’s 2025 EMS Firefighter of the Year.

In making the announcement, Chief Michael Contreras said this honor is awarded to an individual who exemplifies the highest standards of dedication, professionalism, and service both on the fireground and within our department family.

Joe embodies every one of those qualities and more, the chief said.

“Joe’s passion for the fire service is evident by his contributions to the department and others, Joe built his career with purpose and determination.”

He earned his Associate of Arts degree in Fire Science and Emergency Management from Palomar College and went on to complete both the Fire Academy and Paramedic School. Before joining our ranks, Richardson served his community as a Paramedic with Mercy Ambulance in San Diego while simultaneously volunteering as a Firefighter with the Elfin Forest Harmony Grove Fire Department, a testament to his commitment to public service even before he was a fulltime firefighter.

Richardson joined the Cathedral City Fire Department in February 2018 as a Firefighter/Paramedic and was recently promoted to Fire Engineer in July 2025. In the
years since joining our team, he has distinguished himself not only as a skilled and dependable firefighter and medic, but as a true leader, the chief said.

“What truly sets Joe apart and what makes him deserving of this recognition above all else, is that he genuinely cares about the people around him. His commitment to the well-being of his fellow firefighters is evident every single day.”

As Chair of the Department Wellness Committee, Joe has taken it upon himself to ensure that our people are looked after physically, mentally, and emotionally. He schedules physicals for department members, seeks out and attends classes focused on physical and mental health, and continuously brings back knowledge and resources that benefit the entire team, the Chief said.

“In a profession where we spend so much energy caring for others, Joe makes sure we don’t forget to care for ourselves.”

Beyond his wellness efforts, Richardson’s operational contributions are equally impressive. He manages all EMS supply stocking and ordering for the department, oversees the Residential EMS Box Program, and serves as an Engineer Academy Instructor, volunteering his time and expertise to help shape the next generation of Cathedral City firefighters, Contreras said.

“His willingness to give back, to teach, and to invest in others speaks volumes about the kind of person and firefighter he is. Joe is also a member of local 3654 executive board who has been instrumental in moving things forward, especially our staffing SOP,” Contreras said. “I would like to personally thank him for his collaboration on the staffing SOP to get it completed.”

When Joe is not on duty, he enjoys spending time with his wife Brittany and their Jack Russell Terrier, Kai, a reminder that behind every firefighter is a strong support system at home.

“He represents the very best of what it means to be a Cathedral City firefighter — skilled under pressure, compassionate off the rig, and always putting the team first,” Contreras said, “We are fortunate to have him.”

The City Council will present Richardson with the firefighter of the year award today, Wednesday, April 22 the City Council meeting, which begins at 5:30.