Texas Association of Fire Educators
​Join us in enhancing fire education across Texas and strengthening our community of passionate educators dedicated to fire safety.
Meet the Team
Executive Officers
&
Board of Directors
President
Rowan Arnold
Vice President
Frank Beccerra
Treasurer
Greg Obert
Secretary
Jason Shafer
Director
Jaime Hernandez
Director
Jason Corthell
Director
Jeff Beltran
Annual Conference is scheduled February 2-6 2026 in Corpus Christi
Conference Registration
$375
Coming Soon
Hotel
Reservation
Earl Malone Award "Texas Training Officer of the Year"
In 1995, the Texas Association of Fire Educators created a new award to honor individuals who were directly involved in the training of their department and other area departments and who were the Training Officer for their department.
The Earl Malone Award was created to honor Earl Malone, one of the founders of the Texas Association of Fire Educators. To honor his dedication to the Texas Fire Service and to the instructors of the State of Texas, the Texas Association of Fire Educators instituted the Earl Malone Award for Training Officers.
Candidates for this award should exemplify the following:
1. Actions demonstrating or exemplifying the goals, objectives, and ethics of the Texas Association of Fire Educators.
2. Performances demonstrating planning, development, and delivery of training and education that have changed the behaviors of target audiences.
3. Variety and quality of activities which have and/or been deemed as outstanding in their field.
4. Administration: Submission of classes or schools.
5. Instruction: Instruction & organization of instructors.
6. Participation with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection and other departments.
7. Participation with state programs.
8. Participation in innovative programs.
9. Training of other departments.
10. Instructor continuing education.
11. Must be a Training Officer for their department.
Additional criteria for Training Officer of the Year includes:
1. Main focus on education and improving the skills of firefighters.
2. Provides quality instruction and techniques meeting the level of training to help firefighters excel according to their skill level.
3. Demonstrates outstanding commitment and dedication to their organization.
4. Demonstrates exceptional leadership within their organization.
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If you would like to nominate someone, please use the link button
2024 Recipient Randy Tauch
George M Hughes Award "Texas Instructor of the Year"
In 1993, the Texas Association of Fire Educators created the George Hughes in honor of George Hughes, A North Richland Hills FF and Founding member of the TCCC Fire Protection Program. This award recognizes individuals who are directly involved in the training of their respective organization and provide outstanding Instructional delivery.
Nomination guidelines include:
1. Actions demonstrating or exemplifying the goals, objectives, and ethics of the Texas Association of Fire Educators.
2. Performances demonstrating planning, development, and delivery of training and education that have changed the
behaviors of target audiences.
3. Variety and quality of activities which have and/or been deemed as outstanding in their field.
4. Participation in innovative programs, technology, or equipment for the fire service.
5. Training not necessarily under the direct training requirements for a firefighter.
6. Selection may be from, but not limited to the following: special speakers, college instructors, vendors, specialty
instructors, fire service instructors.
Additional criteria for Fire Instructor of the Year includes:
1. Main focus on education, training, and professional development of firefighters.
2. Provide exceptional instruction to various members of the firefighter community.
3. Advance the cause of firefighter operational effectiveness and safety.
4. Serves as a positive role model for other fire instructors and firefighters throughout the firefighting community.
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If you would like to nominate someone, please use the link button
2024 Recipient Rusty Downs
Our Purpose
Empower Educators
We strive to empower fire education professionals in Texas, focusing on innovative teaching methods and collaborative approaches to enhance fire training.
Support Growth
Our organization supports continuous professional development and fosters collaboration among fire educators, ensuring they have the tools to succeed in their missions.
Enhance Training
We work to enhance training programs through quality educational resources, networking opportunities, and access to industry best practices.
Foster Community
Our goal is to foster a strong and supportive community that champions fire education, resulting in better trained professionals and a safer Texas.
Our Purpose
Empower Educators
We strive to empower fire education professionals in Texas, focusing on innovative teaching methods and collaborative approaches to enhance fire training.
Support Growth
Our organization supports continuous professional development and fosters collaboration among fire educators, ensuring they have the tools to succeed in their missions.
Enhance Training
We work to enhance training programs through quality educational resources, networking opportunities, and access to industry best practices.
Foster Community
Our goal is to foster a strong and supportive community that champions fire education, resulting in better trained professionals and a safer Texas.
Successes
Members Engaged
Over the several years, we have successfully engaged thousands of educators, improving collaboration across the state.
Increased Participation
Networking Events
We hosted multiple conferences and networking events that connected fire educators, enhancing shared resources and ideas.
Strengthened Connections
Published Resources
Our comprehensive resources have been made available to our members, equipping educators with invaluable teaching tools.
Valuable Material