Ricardo Guzman

The Respiratory Care Board (RCB) is proud to introduce Ricardo Guzman, our esteemed Board President. Appointed to the Board by the Senate Pro Tempore on January 17, 2019, Ricardo serves as a licensee member and has led the Board as President since January 1, 2020. With an incredible 42-year career in respiratory therapy, Ricardo brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his role, shaping the future of respiratory care in California.

Currently, Ricardo serves as a Professor and Program Director at Napa Valley College and continues his hands-on work as a bedside Respiratory Care Practitioner at NorthBay Health. His journey with the Board began long before he officially became a member—attending meetings, advocating for higher standards, and witnessing the unwavering commitment of the Board’s staff and members.

"I became an RT before the Board was established and was grandfathered in. Having a license to practice enhanced our profession’s reputation, and I always respected the work the Board does behind the scenes."

After years of professional advocacy, Ricardo applied for a Board position, recognizing the vital role RCB plays in regulating the profession to ensure patient safety.

A Passion for Elevating the Profession

For Ricardo, serving on the Board is not just about regulation—it’s about raising the standards of respiratory care across the state.

"My goal is that the work we do—whether at the bedside, as managers, or as educators—is elevated to a higher standard. If we are not growing, we are stagnant."

As President, Ricardo is committed to protecting and serving consumers by advancing meaningful improvements in the RCB’s programs and the respiratory care profession.

A Message to the Respiratory Care Community

Ricardo believes that every RCP plays a heroic role, even if their impact isn’t always visible.

"The work RCPs do is heroic, even if we are not recognized as we would expect. We often don’t realize the profound impact we have on our patients, their families, and even our colleagues."

We are grateful for Ricardo’s leadership and his dedication to respiratory care in California. Stay tuned for more spotlights on the incredible individuals shaping our profession!