As as assistant fire chief in Columbus, Ohio, Jim Davis battled the opioid crisis and trained firefighters to recognize public health issues when they answered calls.
When Davis starts as Fort Worth’s new fire chief in September, he plans to bring that same collaborative approach.
Davis’ unique background — he has a 20-year history as a critical care nurse and flight nurse — helped him become Fort Worth’s 13th fire chief.
He will oversee the 987-member department that has a $145 million annual budget but Davis doesn’t come in with a predetermined agenda. Davis, 54, said the rapid growth that has made Fort Worth the 15th largest city in the U.S. is part of what intrigued him about taking the job.
“When you’re not landlocked or growth-restricted that’s a good opportunity,” Davis said.