About Chief Buck

Chief Palmer Buck  holds a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Science Fire Protection Technology, a Master of Public Affairs and is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer program.  During his 26 years with the Austin Fire Department, Chief Buck was involved in all operational aspects of the Austin Fire Department. 

Chief Buck has 37 years of experience in public safety. He is a proven leader with extensive operations and command experience, a change agent who is both a problem solver and an innovative thinker, well-versed in personal, budget and resource management and a sought-after mentor and advisor to firefighters of all ranks. 

Chief Buck is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the National Fire Protection Agency, the National Society of Executive Fire Officers and the International Association of Firefighters. He rose through the ranks in the fire service in Texas and North Carolina, having worked as a paramedic, firefighter, EMT, battalion chief, division chief, shift commander, public information officer group supervisor, water team supervisor, among others. He also holds numerous certifications through the National Fire Academy, the Texas Commission on Fire Protection, the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Austin Fire Department