Paramedic Chief Alan Cowen

Alan Cowen is a pioneering figure in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), with over 50 years of experience as a field paramedic, fire service leader, educator, and healthcare professional.

​

Born in Santa Monica, California and raised in Culver City, Cowen earned a B.A. in Speech Communication from California State University, Northridge. He later completed a B.S. in Biology and a Master’s degree in Education with a specialization in Counseling and Guidance—academic credentials that complemented his hands-on career in EMS and public safety leadership.

​

In 1974, just four years after the Los Angeles City Fire Department assumed control of the historic Los Angeles Receiving Hospital System, Cowen became one of the department’s first field paramedics. He quickly advanced to Lead Paramedic, and in 1980, was promoted to Paramedic Supervisor (Captain). His leadership trajectory continued with key promotions: Assistant Commander of the Bureau of Emergency Medical Services in 1985, Chief Paramedic and Bureau Commander in 1987, and ultimately Deputy Fire Chief in 1995.

​

Throughout his career, Cowen has been at the forefront of EMS innovation and organizational development in one of the nation's largest and most complex emergency response systems. He also holds a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree and remains a licensed Mobile Intensive Care Paramedic (MICP)—a designation he has maintained for five decades.

​

Today, Cowen continues to shape the future of emergency response as a Professor of Fire Technology and EMT Program Director at Los Angeles Valley College, where he mentors the next generation of EMS professionals.