CFMA Annual “Pep Richardson” Honoree of the Year Award

In 1966, Fire Chief Francis Newcombe of the then Crest Forest Fire Protection District, a small rural community in San Diego County, organized the very first fire service mechanics organization in San Bernardino County. Twelve agencies participated in that founding effort. 

At the inaugural meeting of this new group, known as the San Bernardino County Fire Mechanics Group, Ivan “Pep” Richardson of the San Bernardino Fire Department was elected as its first president. At the third meeting, the organization adopted a new name: the “Citrus Belt Fire Service Mechanics Association”, which later became the South Section of the California Fire Mechanics Association (CFMA). Over time, the association grew into two sections—North and South—and from these, the California Fire Mechanics Academy (CFMA) was born.

Founding of the Academy

In 1970, “Pep” Richardson, along with a small group of dedicated colleagues from both sections, began volunteering their time to train fleet maintenance personnel. Their efforts evolved into what is now the California Fire Mechanics Academy, offering classes twice a year at the academy level.

After relocating to Northern California, “Pep” continued his work as a fire apparatus mechanic in Davis, further developing training resources and strengthening collaboration between the North and South Sections.

The Academy held its first annual fire mechanics conference in 1971 at the LeBaron Hotel in San Diego. Then called the Fire Service Mechanics Workshop, it offered six classes over the course of a week and welcomed 119 registered participants.

Origins of the Award

The Honoree of the Year Award was first established in 1982 to recognize individuals who advanced the mission of the Academy. Fittingly, the very first recipient was Ivan “Pep” Richardson, honored at San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton.  When “Pep” passed away in 1988, the award was renamed in his memory as the California Fire Mechanics Academy “Pep Richardson” Honoree of the Year Award.

Purpose of the Award

Presented annually, the award recognizes an individual who has:

• Furthered the goals and objectives of the California Fire Mechanics Academy.

• Enhanced the quality of instruction at the Academy.

• Advanced the professionalism and certification of attendees.

• Provided a lifetime of service to the Academy.

Lasting Legacy

Today’s fire apparatus mechanics owe a great debt of gratitude to “Pep” Richardson and the many others who laid the foundation for the profession of Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT).

Through the dedication of the California Fire Mechanics Association, both North and South Sections, along with the California Fire Mechanics Academy, our profession is now recognized worldwide as one of the premier sources for EVT training and certification.

“Pep” Richardson would be proud of what he started, and of the work that each technician continues to do to fulfill his vision and keep this profession alive.