André Edwards Sr. was hired by the District of Columbia Fire & EMS Department in 2004 and has risen through the ranks through promotions based on merit, leadership, and dedication to service. Over his 20 + year career, he has held key assignments in Special Operations, Homeland Security, and Logistics, and currently serves as the Assistant Fire Chief of the EMS Division.
Beginning his career in 2004, Chief Edwards demonstrated a consistent commitment to excellence and advancement. Early assignments in the special operations arena provided him exposure to high-risk, technically demanding incidents and emergency preparedness at the local and regional levels. He later transitioned to roles in the homeland security domain where he contributed to the Department’s readiness for large-scale emergencies, and in the logistics sector, managing vital support operations, equipment and supply chain processes.In his current role, he leads the EMS Bureau, overseeing paramedic and emergency medical operations, ensuring the highest level of patient care and response readiness.
As Assistant Fire Chief of EMS, Chief Edwards directs and supports the Department’s emergency medical response system, guiding strategy, policy, training, and operations in alignment with the Department’s mission. His leadership spans daily EMS operations, quality assurance, resource allocation, inter-agency coordination, and community outreach initiatives. He is also committed to mentoring and developing the next generation of emergency service professionals.
Driven by a lifelong passion for learning, Chief Edwards places high value on professional development, continuous training, and the adoption of best practices in emergency response and healthcare. Equally, he maintains a deep sense of service and a genuine commitment to helping others—whether that’s supporting citizens in crisis, guiding team members, or collaborating with partner agencies to strengthen the region’s resiliency.
Chief Edwards is focused on enhancing EMS delivery through innovation, operational excellence, community engagement and resilience. He envisions a Department that not only responds to emergencies with speed and competence but also actively works to educate, protect and empower the community it serves. He remains steadfast in his belief that by investing in people, technology, training and partnerships, the District of Columbia Fire & EMS Department will continue to be a model of excellence in public safety and emergency medical care.
Outside of his official duties, Chief Edwards is known for his mentorship of younger personnel, his supportive approach to team development, and his volunteering efforts in community-based outreach and public safety education. He views every day as an opportunity to make a difference—whether in the firehouse, the field or the neighborhood.
