Governor Greg Abbott has made a series of appointments to the Texas Commission on Fire Protection, effective immediately. James Mallinger has been appointed as a commissioner for a term that will end on February 1, 2029. John Ortega has been tapped as a new appointee, while Sue De Villez, Paul Hamilton, and Brandon Wade have been reappointed for terms ending on February 1, 2031. Governor Abbott also named Michael Glynn, Jr. as the chair of the Commission. The Commission's responsibilities include developing and enforcing statewide fire service standards and offering education and assistance to the fire protection industry.
James Mallinger from Cedar Park serves as the city's fire chief and instructors at the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service and Austin Community College. With 29 years at the City of Cedar Park, he has held various roles including firefighter and city emergency management coordinator. Mallinger holds multiple qualifications and degrees, including a Master of Public Administration from Texas State University.
John Ortega of San Antonio, the newly appointed member, works as deputy chief for Bexar County Fire Marshal’s Office. He is affiliated with numerous organizations related to arson investigation and fire protection, and holds a Doctorate in Forensic Science from Oklahoma State University.
Sue De Villez is a retired nurse from Georgetown with a background in garden club leadership and youth scouting. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University.
Paul Hamilton, based in Amarillo, is a retired officer of the Hereford Volunteer Fire Department, where he served in multiple capacities over 26 years. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.
Brandon Wade, appointed from Corpus Christi, is the fire chief for the city and a former assistant chief with the Austin Fire Department. He has been involved in various fire chiefs associations and holds a degree in Emergency Management from West Texas A&M University.
Michael Glynn, appointed as chair, is a fire captain with the Fort Worth Fire Department and an educator at Tarrant County College. He serves on multiple firefighter associations and has a business degree from Texas A&M University.
The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Senate.
