A dinner table discussion captures the heart of the team
On Dec. 22, 2023, Chief Jason Dougherty became the seventh Fire Chief in Hillsborough County's history. Dougherty is determined to lead by putting the team first. And eight months into his new role, Dougherty has made great strides in that direction. Who motivates him? The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) team is a constant source of inspiration. "We are ordinary people doing extraordinary things every day for Hillsborough County residents," Dougherty emphasizes.
A vision for the first year
Dougherty has set clear goals for his first year - celebrating the exceptional service of the HCFR personnel and who they are, and strategically addressing increasing call volumes and response times. In fact, additional rescue cars and ambulance staff have been added during peak hours to positively affect response times and enhance the well-being of first responders and the residents they serve.
When asked to share his goals for the future, Dougherty agreed and requested to include the new leadership team as well. Chief Dougherty and HCFR leadership shared their unique perspectives and common goals for the future in an intimate talk around the table.
Meet the team
Hillsborough County Fire Chief Jason Dougherty: Embracing Team Mentality
Dougherty, inspired by his dad (his mentor), who spent his career as both a coach and teacher, is determined to instill a team-first mentality within HCFR. Recalling lessons learned both at home and on the baseball field, Dougherty believes that a cohesive team can achieve far more than any individual effort. For Dougherty, it is all about the team and teamwork.
Chief Jose "Pep" Prado: The Cuban Sandwich Legacy
Known affectionately as the "Cuban Sandwich" from his wrestling days in West Tampa, Prado, the Deputy Chief of Administration, brings a blend of humor and dedication to his role. His advice for new hires? Be the first to arrive and the last to leave. Prado stresses the importance of work ethic and reputation.
Chief Gilbert Reyes, Jr.: A Life of Giving Back
Deputy Chief of Operations Reyes has always felt fortunate and driven to give back. After 37 years with HCFR, Reyes retired, but within 14 months, his passion for the job brought him back to serve. He is inspired by the daily challenges and joys of his role, continually learning and striving to support his team. What motivates him? To do something greater than himself daily.
Chief Kimberle Rogers: Champion of Health and Safety
For Rogers, Health and Safety Chief, serving the men and women of HCFR is a significant honor. She has grown the peer support team from her days as a lieutenant into a strong support system, reflecting her dedication to her colleagues' well-being. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she has received leadership awards and continues to make a positive impact.
Chief Norman Brown: The Importance of Knowing Your Role
With a background in sports, Brown, Planning and Compliance Section Chief, naturally gravitated towards the team atmosphere of firefighting. Starting at Station 14 and moving to Special Operations at Station 11, he knows the importance of understanding and excelling in one's role. Brown says the only way to get things done is with the support of the team, highlighting the collective effort required in their line of work.
Chief Robert Herrin: Celebrating the People Who Serve the People
Herrin, who serves as HCFR's Public Safety Information Officer, loves to showcase the department. And with his unique background in marketing and over 20 years in fire service, he is just the person for the job. Highlighting the success of the department and individual members within it gives the team pride, both in each other and in themselves. Herrin takes his role seriously and has already implemented a new internal communications system that is a platform to share successes with all 46 stations daily.
Building the next generation
HCFR is also focused on fostering future talent through programs like the Summer Youth Fire Academy and the Cadet program. These initiatives promote diversity and prepare young people for careers in firefighting, with 22 program graduates now serving as firefighters. Dougherty is proud to see these programs excel. They are some of his favorite department initiatives.
Community and support
The Chiefs stress the importance of community engagement and support. "Get to know your local fire station," urges Dougherty, emphasizing the value of community interaction and backing for new station plans. Chiefs Prado, Brown, Reyes, and Rogers echo the sentiment, and added that a simple thank you from the community can significantly boost morale.
As HCFR continues to grow and evolve, its leadership remains united in their mission to serve both their team and the community. Working together, Dougherty knows they will do amazing things. And as the discussion concludes, it is evident that so much happens right here. The Chiefs laugh and agree - ideas, solutions, and yes, pounds, all come from the dinner table.