Mark Palmer began his career in the field of Fire & EMS in 1977 by attending Florida State Fire College. After completion he was hired as a Firefighter/EMT for the city of Rockledge, Florida. A trip to Houston inspired him to become a Houston Firefighter in 1978. Although an on duty injury in 1996 eventually forced him to retire from the City of Houston Fire Department, his passion for the Fire & Emergency Medical Service lead him to seek a position at Westlake Fire Department as chief. During his 24 year tenure as Fire Chief of the Westlake Fire Department he has always believed that his personnel are the most valued asset his department has. He also believes in treating the citizens of the community as if they are family. He has taught multiple Emergency Medical Technician classes and has the gift of making something difficult to understand seem simple. After 39 years of experience in this great career, his passion for it continues to grow stronger each day. CHIEF=Compassion, Honor, Integrity, Efficient, Faith