Robert Collins is a decorated United States Air Force veteran and dedicated public servant whose career reflects a lifelong commitment to service and community. He served ten years in the Air Force, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant and deploying in multiple campaigns, including Desert Shield and Desert Storm. During his military career, he earned numerous commendations, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force National Defense Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, and multiple Outstanding Unit Awards. After separating from the military, Chief Collins continued his commitment to service by joining the fire service, rising from firefighter to Special Operations Chief of Tampa Fire Rescue. Recognized as an expert in domestic security and disaster response, he chairs the Regional Domestic Security Task Force specialty response teams for the State of Florida and serves on the International Association of Fire Chiefs Hazmat Committee and the Florida Fire Chiefs education committee, where he mentors emerging fire officers.

A committed community leader and member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., he serves as Director of Operations for the Kappa League, teen mentoring program, overseeing more than 120 young men engaged in food distributions, veteran grave flag placements, toy and turkey drives, neighborhood cleanups, and home assistance projects that help them earn scholarships. His impact has been recognized with multiple civilian and fire service honors, including being twice named Firefighter of the Year, receiving an Outstanding Leadership Award, the Kappa Alpha Psi Polemarch’s Award, and a Lifetime Service Award from the United States Congress.

He holds a master’s degree in public administration from Florida Gulf Coast University and was the Top Graduate of the International Association of Fire Chiefs Diversity Leadership Program.  He holds certifications as a Chief Fire Officer, Fire Service Instructor, Incident Safety Officer, and Incident Management team leader.

He is married with one teenage son.