Gary Heron is an O2X On-Site Human Performance Specialist and Program Manager specializing in Strength and Conditioning for the City of Berkeley Public Safety. In this role, he oversees the city’s human performance program, delivering comprehensive training, resources, and strategies designed to enhance readiness, resilience, and performance for public safety professionals both on and off the job.

With over 15 years of experience in human performance, Gary has held key leadership roles across tactical, collegiate, and elite sport environments. He served as the Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) Apprenticeship Course under the United States Air Force Special Warfare Training Wing, where he supported high-stakes selection and training pipelines. Prior to that, he was the Director of Strength and Conditioning at the University of California, Riverside, where he led multiple Big West Conference championships, oversaw a full facility renovation, and developed an internship program that produced strength coaches now working across all levels of sport. He has also worked in the private sector and served as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

Gary earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Kinesiology from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. A native of Riverside, CA, he brings a lifelong connection to sport and competition, having been a baseball player whose early athletic experiences ultimately led him into strength and conditioning. His career reflects a deep commitment to developing performance systems that support both athletes and tactical professionals.