Command Staff
A Shift
Battalion Chief Grover
Chief Grover, a lifelong resident of Apple Valley, is deeply committed to the community he proudly serves.
He attended Apple Valley High School and Victor Valley College before embarking on his fire service career in 2003 with the US Forest Service. In March 2004, he joined Apple Valley Fire as a Paid Call Firefighter and became a full-time Firefighter in August 2006. Throughout his career, Chief Grover has advanced through the ranks, earning his Paramedic License and serving as Engineer, Captain, and, most recently was promoted to Battalion Chief in April 2024.
Chief Grover currently serves as the A-Shift Battalion Chief, where he manages the daily operations of A-Shift. In addition to his operational duties, he oversees the department’s training programs, ensuring all personnel are well-prepared and up-to-date with their skills. He also supervises the Reserve Firefighter program and the Explorers program, guiding and mentoring the next generation of firefighters.
Chief Grover is honored to work and serve in the community he grew up in and continues to call home.
B Shift
Battalion Chief Dowland
Chief Dowland has called the Apple Valley community home since 1988, having moved here with his family at the age of four.
Today, he and his wife continue to reside in Apple Valley, where they are raising their three beautiful children. He is a proud alumnus of Rio Vista Elementary School, Apple Valley Middle School, Apple Valley High School, and Victor Valley College.
Chief Dowland’s journey in the Fire Service began in 1999 as a Fire Explorer with the Apple Valley Fire District Explorer Post #257. Upon turning 18, he attended the fire academy at Victor Valley College and started his career with the Fire District in 2002. In 2006, he furthered his education by attending Paramedic School at Victor Valley College. Throughout his career, he has risen through the ranks within the Fire District.
Currently, Chief Dowland serves as the Battalion Chief supervising B-Shift. He also oversees the EMS Program, Safety Committee, and Honor Guard.
Chief Dowland feels honored to call Apple Valley and the Fire District home. He considers it a privilege to make a positive impact in the community he shares with his family and friends.
C Shift
Battalion Chief Qualls
C Shift: Battalion Chief Qualls
Chief Qualls is a lifelong resident of Apple Valley, deeply connected to both the community and the Fire District.
His journey with the Fire District began in 1996 as an Explorer, and he was hired to a full-time position in 2000. Throughout his tenure, Chief Qualls has held various positions, including Limited Term Firefighter, Firefighter Paramedic, Engineer, Fire Captain, and Battalion Chief.
Currently, Chief Qualls manages C-Shift Operations and oversees Facilities, Apparatus, Tools & Equipment, and Dispatch. He also represents the Fire District at the County and ConFire Operations Level.
Chief Qualls appreciates that the Apple Valley Fire District provides a supportive environment for motivated individuals to excel. He values opportunities for gaining experience through diverse incidents and leadership roles, fostering both personal and professional growth.