Fire Chief, Valerie Frausto

Valerie Frausto, Fire Chief

Career

Valerie Frausto, a San Antonio native, has dedicated 24 years to the San Antonio Fire Department, beginning her career in August 2000. She steadily advanced through the ranks as a Firefighter, Fire Engineer, Lieutenant, Captain, District Chief, and Assistant Chief.

Throughout her career, Chief Frausto has held significant leadership positions. She has served as Battalion Chief, Division Chief of Communications and Technical Services, and Assistant Chief of Support Services, managing Communications, Recruiting, Applicant Processing, and Wellness. As Fire Marshal, she directed Fire Prevention, Risk Reduction, and Community Outreach, demonstrating her commitment to both public safety and community engagement. Most recently, as Interim Deputy Chief of Administrative Services, she directed all activities related to Prevention, Public Outreach, Public Information Office (Media Production/Community Relations), Recruiting/ Applicant Processing, Professional Standards, Services (Fleet/Supply/Facilities), Budget/Fiscal, Payroll, Personnel, and Wellness, in addition to her Fire Marshal duties.

Education

  • Graduated summa cum laude from Texas A&M University in San Antonio
  • Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Fire and Emergency Services Administration
  • Certifications from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection:
    • Master Structural Firefighter
    • Fire Officer I & II
    • Fire Instructor I
    • Fire Inspector
    • Plan Reviewer
    • Fire Investigator
    • Fire Marshal
    • Certified EMT-Paramedic

Vision

Chief Valerie Frausto is committed to enhancing the health and safety of firefighters and promoting a culture that values diversity, inclusion, and equity. She plans to implement strong programs for professional development, mentorship, and succession planning to ensure growth and advancement within the department.

Her vision prioritizes attracting, rewarding, and retaining talent while fostering an environment of positive reinforcement and open communication. Chief Frausto aims to involve all levels of the organization in decision-making and maintain transparency to boost morale and motivation.

Her strategic focus includes:

  • Restoring a strong sense of purpose in public service.
  • Expanding community engagement.
  • Providing more development opportunities for firefighters.
  • Enhancing support and reinforcement within the department.
  • Strengthening connections between the fire department and the community.
  • Ensuring the continued excellence and success of the San Antonio Fire Department.
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