HCC Alumni Association member John Douglas has been an inspiration to his peers throughout his career of over 21 years with the Houston Fire Department. As district chief with the Houston Fire Department, Douglas is responsible for the department’s hazardous material response team and keeping the city safe from chemical emergencies.

Douglas grew up in the Houston area and dreamed of becoming a firefighter. He joined the Galena Park Fire Department in 1984. After gaining experience at the Galena Park and Village Fire Departments, he became a member of the Houston Fire Department in 1989. Though training was provided through the fire department and other outside entities, Douglas quickly realized that the best opportunities for advancement came from the programs offered through Houston Community College’s Public Safety Institute. HCC’s nationally recognized Fire Protection Technology Department and Public Safety Institute are both among 26 HCC workforce programs recognized as exemplary by the state of Texas. More than 70% of the critical personnel (police, fire, EMT and healthcare workers) that keep Houston safe and healthy receive their training at HCC.

“The courses taught at HCC in fire protection were definitely an asset in preparing for my career,” says Douglas. “HCC’s flexible course times allowed me to go to school part time while working an ever-changing schedule at the fire department.”

After graduating from HCC in 1992 with an associate of science degree in fire science technology, Douglas rose through the department ranks to his current position as district chief. But his involvement with HCC did not stop there. As a part of his 2000 promotion to captain, Douglas became responsible for HCC’s cadet training program. He joined the faculty as an adjunct instructor for HCC Northeast’s fire training program, a position he holds still today.

“Teaching really keeps you on your toes—it helps reinforce important principles that aren’t always a part of your day-to-day job. It means a lot to me to be part of an institution that is such a wonderful benefit to the community,” says Douglas, who continues to inspire future firefighters.

Douglas has received myriad awards throughout his career, including a U.S. Congressional Fire Heroism Award, the Law Enforcement Award from the Texas Advisory Council on Arson, two City of Houston Unit Valor Awards, and Firefighter of the Year. Douglas continues to grow in his field and serve as a leader in his community. We are proud to call him one of HCC’s own.