ROBERT HAWKINS, PRESIDENT LOS ANGELES CITY STENTORIANS
Robert Hawkins is a Fire Captain with over 24 years of dedicated service to the fire service industry. His journey began in 2001 when he broke barriers as the first African-American firefighter at the Vernon Fire Department. Since then, he has climbed the ranks and made significant contributions to the Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD), earning a reputation as a passionate advocate for diversity and a catalyst for positive change within the fire service.
His Story
In 2003, Robert embarked on a new chapter in his career when he joined the Los Angeles City Fire Department. Over the years, he distinguished himself with a strong commitment to excellence, rising through the ranks from Engineer to Fire Captain. His exceptional leadership skills were further honed at the LAFD's prestigious West Point Leadership Academy, where he developed the tools and knowledge necessary to excel in his demanding role. Robert pursued further education in diversity, equity, and inclusion as a testament to his dedication to fostering inclusivity and equality.
In 2022, he completed a certificate program at Cornell University, enhancing his expertise in creating diverse and inclusive environments within the fire service. Robert's passion for making a global impact was exemplified in 2019 when he was selected to deliver a 1996 Seagrave fire engine and provide essential training to firefighters in Zambia, Africa, as part of the Zambia Z7 Project. This initiative showcased his expertise and exemplified his commitment to sharing knowledge and resources for the betterment of firefighting practices worldwide. His commitment to education and personal development has led Robert to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management at Union University, further cementing his credentials as a forward-thinking leader.
Recognizing the importance of mentorship in empowering future generations of firefighters, Robert initiated mentorship programs in South Los Angeles, underscoring his dedication to nurturing the potential of aspiring firefighters from diverse backgrounds. In his current role as President of the Los Angeles City Stentorians, Robert Hawkins continues to advocate for diversity and inclusion. He strives to change the culture within the fire service for the betterment of all its members. His unwavering dedication to his profession, combined with his commitment to inclusivity and education, makes him a true trailblazer and a respected leader in the firefighting community. Robert's story is an inspiring testament to the positive impact that one individual can have in shaping the future of the fire service.