For Rob Mathis, stepping into the role of fire chief for Portland Airport Fire & Rescue is the realization of a life-long dream and the culmination of three decades of experience, dedication and service. As he moves into his new role, he’s focused on ensuring his team members are able perform their duties safely and to the best of their abilities with the right equipment, the right training and the right staffing.

Can you share a bit about your background, career path and how you originally came to join Portland Airport Fire and Rescue?
I was born and raised in Oregon and always wanted to be a firefighter for the state I grew up in, but it took me 31 years to get here. I grew up in Molalla and started volunteering while attending Clackamas Community College. Jobs in the fire service were scarce, so I elected to join the United States Air Force as a firefighter.

At the end of my four-year enlistment and the conclusion of Desert Storm, I was offered an aircraft rescue firefighting job with Boeing. Like most people, I had no idea that Boeing had its own fire department. I was also amazed to learn they had 12 stations and about 350 firefighters. I spent almost 27 years with Boeing Fire and, when I left, I was in the role of fire marshal. I was fortunate enough to hold every position while there, with the exception of chief.

I was honored to join Portland Airport Fire and Rescue in June 2018, and serve as Fire Chief Craig Funk’s assistant chief. Working for the Port was something I looked at doing for several years. Getting the chance to work for a great mentor – and later, friend – was everything I hoped it would be.

What impresses you most about PDX?
Coming here was exciting, knowing that I’d have an opportunity to work closely with people and really get to know them. COVID-19 definitely made this more difficult, but I feel we’re on pace to get back to where we once were.

As for my fire team, I knew before I came here that this was a department of quality individuals. They take their profession very seriously and, in my opinion, are one of the best aircraft rescue fire teams in the country and probably beyond. Our fire department really cares for each other and the community we serve. I couldn’t ask for a better group with whom to serve out the remainder of my career.

How does this new role differ from your previous position as assistant fire chief and what existing knowledge can be applied?
I truly enjoyed my time as assistant chief here, and am excited about the time I’ll get to spend as fire chief. As the assistant to the fire chief, my role was more tactical, engaging in day-to-day operations. I do like to be involved with the team and the position provided me with that opportunity. As the fire chief, I’ll have that same opportunity for engagement, but at more of a strategic level. I look forward to collaborating with our union to provide a safe and healthy environment for our firefighters.

What are your top priorities in your role as fire chief for Portland Airport Fire & Rescue?
My focus will be on safety, staffing and service. The safety of my team and the people we serve has always been my top priority throughout my career; that’s probably why I’m still at it. Ensuring we have the staffing we need will ultimately improve safety. Our goal is to provide the highest level of service possible at PDX, to the traveling public and the community we serve.