04/21/2026
🎉Congratulations on your anniversary and invaluable contributions during these 25 years of service, Captain Hickman! 🎉
Chris Hickman was born in Morristown, TN but considers himself a Florida native, and was hired by Ocala Fire Rescue in 2001. During his 25 years of service, he has worked his way through the ranks from Firefighter/Paramedic to Captain, demonstrating unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and service to the community.
Captain Hickman is an innovative and mission-driven Fire Service leader with over 30 years of progressive experience in emergency medical services, community paramedicine, and multi-agency healthcare integration. He is a board-level collaborator and architect of one of Florida’s most comprehensive Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) programs. He is widely recognized for pioneering community-based care models that reduce 911 utilization, improve chronic disease outcomes, and strengthen partnerships between fire service, hospital systems, public health, and social service agencies.
Captain Hickman currently serves as a Captain with Ocala Fire Rescue and is widely recognized as a leader in Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) and community paramedicine. He serves as the Program Coordinator for the Ocala-Marion Mentorship Program, which has assisted hundreds in pursuing careers as first responders. He was also among the first International Association of Firefighters Peer Fitness Instructors, promoting firefighter health, resilience, and wellness.
Throughout his distinguished career, Captain Hickman has received numerous honors, including:
🎖️Council President's Award (2026 & 2022)
🎖️ 2024 MIH Advocate Award
🎖️ 2016 Firefighter of the Year
🎖️ 2008 Firefighter Medal of Valor
His leadership, innovation, and dedication have significantly shaped the evolution of community paramedicine in the region and strengthened Ocala Fire Rescue's mission.
