Chris Connealy

Connealy will continue to teach at ACC while serving in his new role. He became the Cedar Park fire chief in 2004 and was previously chief of the Houston Fire Department. He teaches ACC’s Fire Administration I (FIRT 1309), an introductory course in the Fire Protection Technology Program.

Butch Miller, chair of ACC’s Fire Protection Technology Program, says having the state fire marshal as an instructor will benefit students.Â

“Learning from the state fire marshal allows future professionals the opportunity to have enhanced knowledge and insight into the processes for developing and implementing fire prevention and protection strategies,” says Miller.

Connealy holds a bachelor’s degree in fire administration and a master’s degree in executive fire service leadership. As state fire marshal, Connealy will lead the State Fire Marshal’s Office, which works with communities to reduce loss of life and property from fires. He also will serve on TDI’s executive management team.

“I believe his knowledge and experience will be an asset to this agency and the citizens of this state as we continue our statewide efforts at fire prevention, fire safety education, and investigation,” says Texas Insurance Commissioner Eleanor Kitzman.Â

ACC’s Fire Protection Technology Program includes the Fire Training Academy, a sought-after cadet program leading to entry-level firefighter careers. During the past two years, nearly 100 percent of ACC’s cadets passed the firefighter certification exam.

ACC also offers an associate degree in fire protection technology for certified firefighters who want to further their education with general education classes and fire safety instruction. For more information on ACC’s Fire Protection Technology Program, visit austincc.edu/info/fire.