HOUSTON — Houston Fire Chief Sam Peña is a first-generation U.S. citizen who was born to Mexican immigrants.
From an early age, he grew up in a culture of service.
"We’ve always had the culture, right? Of giving back to our communities and trying to make a positive impact," he said.
Born in Los Angeles and raised in El Paso, Peña carried that culture with him to the U.S. Air Force and then into a career in firefighting, which has spanned nearly three decades.
"One of the things I learned, certainly from my culture and in my household growing up, is the continuous desire to keep pushing forward," he said.
Peña served as El Paso's fire chief for nearly four years before being named Houston's fire chief in December 2016. It was the first time a Latino held that position.
"It’s a privilege to serve as fire chief for this world-class organization and certainly to be the first Latino to serve in this role," he said.
Peña said his background only strengthens his ability to serve in Houston.
"My job as fire chief is to serve those that are serving our community," he said. "My multicultural background, I think, has been invaluable in serving the fourth largest city in the country. With a population of nearly 50 percent, it’s been incredibly helpful to be able to communicate directly and relate to our communities directly."
Peña leads a department of nearly 3,900 personnel. His days consist of station visits, listening sessions and meetings.
This year, his efforts were recognized when he was named the 2023 Metropolitan Fire Chief of the Year.
"To be selected as the fire chief of the year for 2023 was truly an honor," he said.
The chief believes the award is not only a professional achievement but a recognition and validation of department-wide efforts to improve.
As he thinks about Hispanic Heritage Month, he hopes young Latinos can be inspired and aim for leadership positions like his.
"Make themselves qualified, educated, experienced and take advantage and be competitive in whatever industry they would like to work in," he said.
With those ambitions from young people, Peña said he and other leaders have an obligation to lift the next generation of leaders.
"I’m also focused on ensuring that I’m providing those same opportunities to those who are coming behind us so they can achieve as well," Peña said.