Community Corner
Fire Chief Bergerson: 'To Serve Waco in This Role … It’s a Privilege'
Chief Bergerson reflects on a 32-year career: "The purpose, the people, the chance to make a difference—it never gets old."
First responders are a vital part of our communities, keeping us safe and playing an integral role in daily life. Patch and T-Mobile have partnered on a Ride-Along series to showcase the important work these departments and individuals do every day.
We had the opportunity to speak with Interim Fire Chief Robby Bergerson of the Waco Fire Department to learn more about the department, life as a firefighter and the impact of their work.
Can you tell us about the Waco Fire Department?
Chief Bergerson: The Waco Fire Department has a proud and storied history dating back to 1873, when it was first established as a volunteer organization to protect the growing city. Over the years, the department evolved into a fully career service, continuously adapting to meet the changing needs of the community. From horse-drawn fire wagons to modern specialized apparatus, Waco Fire has always embraced progress while honoring its legacy of service.
Today, our department consists of 229 highly trained men and women operating out of 14 fire stations across 100 square miles. We protect a wide variety of environments including urban and suburban neighborhoods, high-rise buildings, two airports, Lake Waco, the Brazos River, an industrial park, and Baylor University.
We provide a full spectrum of emergency services including fire suppression, EMS, hazardous materials response, technical rescue, wildland firefighting, and SCUBA operations. With 56 firefighters on duty every day, we are proud to be an ISO Class 1 department, committed to professionalism, preparedness, and public service. Our mission remains rooted in the same principle that founded us over 150 years ago: to protect the lives and property of those we serve.
What does a typical day look like for a firefighter in Waco?
Chief Bergerson: A typical day for a Waco firefighter begins with shift change at 7:30 a.m., starting a 24-hour tour before rotating off for 48 hours. The day kicks off with a thorough truck and equipment check to ensure everything is ready for the next emergency. From there, firefighters stay busy with a wide range of responsibilities, including daily training, responding to fire and medical calls, conducting public education events, performing building inspections, and checking fire hydrants throughout the city.
They also take care of everyday station life: making a quick trip to the store, preparing meals together, cleaning the station, and sharing meals as a crew. When time allows, they rest — because the next emergency could come at any moment, day or night. Every shift brings something different, but the commitment to serving Waco with professionalism and pride never changes.
What inspired you to get involved in firefighting?
Chief Bergerson: What inspired me to get involved in firefighting? Like many, it started with family. I had relatives in the fire service, but it was a cousin in Ohio who really stood out to me — he was a firefighter I deeply admired and looked up to. His dedication and sense of purpose made a strong impression early on.
Another major influence was the television series 'Emergency!' in the 1970s. That show was a game-changer — it followed paramedics Roy DeSoto and Johnny Gage from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and brought the world of emergency response into living rooms across America. It gave a real sense of the action, teamwork, and impact that firefighters could have. As a kid, I was hooked. That mix of service, adrenaline, and making a difference stuck with me — and ultimately led me to a career in the fire service.
It’s what I’ve always wanted to do — so I consider myself one of the lucky few who get to live their dream. From being inspired as a kid to actually stepping into the role, it’s been everything I hoped for and more. Even after 32 years in the fire service, I still love coming to work every day. The purpose, the people, and the chance to make a difference — it never gets old.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Waco community?
Chief Bergerson: What I enjoy most about being part of the Waco community is the strong, close-knit connection we share with the people we serve. There’s a genuine sense of trust, respect, and appreciation that flows both ways. As firefighters, we don’t just respond to emergencies — we become part of people’s lives during their most critical moments. And in Waco, you feel that your efforts truly matter.
As the Fire Chief, that feeling is magnified. I get to see the impact our department has not only in emergencies, but through public education, community programs, and everyday interactions. Whether it’s helping a family after a fire, installing smoke alarms in a neighborhood, or seeing kids light up during a fire station visit, those moments reinforce why we do what we do. It’s incredibly rewarding to lead a team of dedicated professionals who care deeply about this city. Being able to serve Waco in this role isn’t just an honor — it’s a privilege.
What advice would you offer to someone considering becoming a first responder?
Chief Bergerson: If you feel a calling to serve others, then go for it — there’s no more rewarding path. Being a first responder is more than just a job; it’s a career filled with purpose, challenge, and the chance to make a real impact. I’ll admit I’m biased toward the fire service, but if you’re someone who finds fulfillment in helping others, this is one of the best ways to do it. Every day brings new opportunities to make a difference, and you’ll be part of a team that becomes like family. It’s a decision you won’t regret.
More About the Waco Fire Department
Interested in joining the Waco Fire Department? Visit their website to learn more about the application process and full list of requirements. To give you an idea, applicants must be U.S. citizens between the ages of 18 and 35, have a high school diploma or GED plus some college coursework and hold firefighter and EMT certifications from the State of Texas. You'll also need a valid Texas driver’s license, a clean background, and the ability to pass both a written exam and physical agility test. Veterans may be eligible for additional points on their exam score.
If you have any questions regarding employment with the Waco Fire Department, please call the Administration Office at (254) 750-1740.
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Get more information about T-Priority and the first responder discounts here.