David Shew

David Shew retired from CAL FIRE after serving for 32 years in August, 2018, as a Staff Chief for the Division of Planning and Risk Analysis in the California Office of the State Fire Marshal.

He helped establish electronic data collection programs for pre- and post-fire inspections, land use planning initiatives, and GIS analysis. He served as the liaison for the California Strategic Fire Plan and other wildfire regulations with the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection.

During his career, David responded to large wildfires and other emergencies across California, and served as the Public Information Officer for Emergency Management Team3 for 11 years.

Prior to his firefighting career, David practiced as a licensed architect, providing him with a unique perspective on structure ignitions. After retirement, he established Wildfire DefenseWorks, a consulting firm that seeks ways to improve community wildfire resilience and reduce structure loss from wildfires.

David also worked part time for National Fire Protection Association as a Wildfire Field Representative with the Firewise USA® Program. He serves on the Board of Directors for the California Fire Safe Council and the International Association of Wildland Fire.

David retired as the first Fire Administrator for Napa County, California in May 2025, where he oversaw all aspects of fire-related activities across Napa County, and worked with elected leaders to create a more fire resilient future.

He continues to serve as an advisor to insurance and technology companies on wildfire impacts. He remains connected to research efforts across the globe seeking solutions to the growing wildfire challenge, and has provided many presentations both nationally and internationally on this topic. David and his family reside in Napa, California.