Milwaukee Fire Chief Takes Post at MATC

Milwaukee Fire Chief Takes Post at MATC 
CAP TIMES
Todd Finkelmeyer | Posted: Wednesday, October 14, 2009 4:00 pm 

Milwaukee Fire Chief Douglas Holton is resigning his post to become an associate dean of Human and Protective Services at Madison Area Technical College.

"The knowledge and experience he brings will enhance our fire, police and EMS programs," MATC president Bettsey Barhorst said in a press release. "We are delighted that he will be joining the leadership team of our Human and Protective Services Center."

An MATC spokesman said Holton will begin his new position Dec. 1.

Holton, the Milwaukee Fire Department's first black chief, took his post in 2007 after working as fire chief in St. Paul, Minn., for four years. Prior to that, he had worked for 25 years as a Milwaukee firefighter and officer.

"I'm sorry to see him go, because I think he's been an asset to the department," Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

The Milwaukee newspaper also is reporting that Holton is departing in the middle of a "heated controversy" over firefighter staffing.

"I am truly honored for the opportunity to join such a progressive educational institution like Madison Area Technical College," Holton said in a press release put out by MATC. "I believe the college is a leader in preparing students for successful careers in public safety and human services. I'm excited to become a part of the educational team that will ensure the continued success of teaching and training our leaders of tomorrow."

The Center for Human Protective Services is housed in MATC's new West campus, located at 302 South Gammon Road in the former Famous Footwear building. The school is hosting a grand opening "VIP reception" at this facility on Wednesday evening.