Paul Bearce

Paul Bearce retired from the fire service after serving the community for 25 years; beginning his tenure as a volunteer firefighter and EMT. At the time he was working full time as a journalist. Responding to fire and medical emergencies got into his blood and he left his chosen career in journalism to pursue a position as a full-time firefighter.

 

In 2001, he was hired by Rio Rancho Fire Rescue (RRFR) to serve as a firefighter/EMT. After completing paramedic school, he quickly moved through the ranks as the department continued to grow to meet the demands of New Mexico’s third-largest city. He was promoted to Deputy Chief, a position he held for seven years before being appointed as the Fire Chief.

 

During his tenure as an Executive Officer, Chief Bearce began to develop a strong passion for behavioral health initiatives. He helped establish RRFR’s Peer Support Team and worked closely with local mental health providers to increase resource availability for firefighters. He has earned a Master’s Degree in Emergency Services Management, and holds Chief Fire Officer and Executive Fire Officer designations from the Center for Public Safety Excellence and the National Fire Academy, respectively.

 

Currently he serves as the Chair of the New Mexico Coalition for Suicide Prevention and Awareness, teaches for behavioral health initiatives for various organizations across the country, and is enjoying retirement and learning the importance of self-care.