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Chief Jim Davis was responsible for all areas of training and education for the 1,550 firefighters and paramedics in the Columbus Division of Fire. He is a registered nurse with more than 20 years of emergency department, intensive care and mobile intensive care unit experience, including 20 years as a flight RN/EMT with Medflight of Ohio.
Davis holds a master’s degree in operational excellence and process improvement from Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business and a doctorate in adult learning theory from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education Chief Learning Officer program.
He has said the FWFD will approach every encounter with two main principles: Affording every member of the organization the best opportunity to go home safe at the end of their shift, and seeking additional opportunities to engage and be involved with the community by always asking, “why not?”
Davis’ appointment follows an extensive search that included several opportunities for public engagement. Davis replaces Rudy Jackson, who retired after more than 10 years in the position.
He was sworn in Oct. 16, 2018.
Assistant Chief of Educational and Logistical Services
Assistant Chief Hill has been with the FWFD for 27 years. He is responsible for managing Recruit Training, In-Service Training, the Office of Emergency Management, Personal Protective Equipment and Supply, some aspects of Facility Maintenance, Fire Apparatus and Vehicle Services, Personnel Health & Wellness, the Fire Alarm Office and the SCBA (Air) Shop.
Email: Derek.Edwards@fortworthtexas.gov
Assistant Chief of Operations
Assistant Chief Edwards has been with the FWFD since 1999. He is responsible for managing Fire Operations, EMS Operations and Special Operations, which include Technical Rescue Team (TRT), Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT), Wildland Firefighting, Dive and Swift Water Rescue and Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF). Chief Edwards holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Tarleton State University, a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from University of Texas at Arlington and an Executive Fire Officer (EFO) certification from the National Fire Academy.
Assistant Chief of Executive Services
Assistant Chief Rick Hicks began his career with the Fort Worth Fire Department in 1998. He is currently assigned to oversee the Executive Services Division, which includes the Bureau of Fire Prevention, Arson/Bomb Investigations, Community Risk Reduction, Recruitment/Hiring, and Professional Standards. Rick previously served as the Deputy Chief/Fire Marshal for five years prior to his promotion to Assistant Chief. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management Administration from West Texas A&M University.