Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has made significant appointments to the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. James Mallinger has been appointed to the Commission, with a term ending on February 1, 2029. Additionally, Governor Abbott named Michael Glynn, Jr., as the chair of the Commission. He also appointed John Ortega and reappointed Sue De Villez, Paul Hamilton, and Brandon Wade for terms expiring on February 1, 2031.

James Mallinger, from Cedar Park, is the fire chief for the City of Cedar Park and an adjunct instructor at Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service and Austin Community College. He has served the Cedar Park Fire Department in various capacities over 29 years and holds multiple certifications and degrees, including a Master's in Public Administration from Texas State University.

John Ortega, a San Antonio resident, serves as the deputy chief of field operations and law enforcement for the Bexar County Fire Marshal’s Office. He is affiliated with several national and international fire-related organizations and is a qualified professional with advanced degrees, including a Doctorate in Forensic Science from Oklahoma State University.

Sue De Villez from Georgetown is a retired nurse with a history of involvement in gardening clubs and civic organizations. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University.

Paul Hamilton, from Amarillo, is a former volunteer firefighter and fire department officer with extensive professional involvement in fire service associations. He served in the United States Marine Corps and has a background in education with ties to local schools.

Brandon Wade, of Corpus Christi, is the fire chief for the Corpus Christi Fire Department, with a long history of service in the Austin Fire Department. He has been active in various fire chiefs associations and holds degrees in fire science and emergency management from San Antonio College and West Texas A&M University.

Michael Glynn, representing Roanoke, is a fire captain for the Fort Worth Fire Department and an instructor. Glynn holds positions within multiple fire service organizations and has an academic background in business administration from Texas A&M University.

The Commission, responsible for developing fire service standards in Texas, will see these appointments pending Senate confirmation.