About the candidate
Novak was previously assigned as the interim assistant fire chief and fire marshal at West University. According to a Dec. 10 news release, he started his career in the fire service industry in 1994 with the Yoakum Fire Department in South Central Texas after receiving his paramedic certification from Victoria College.
Novak moved to Houston in the '90s and joined the West University Place Fire Department in 1996 as a firefighter and paramedic. He became a lieutenant in 2010 and assistant fire chief in 2013.
He also holds an additional degree and two certifications, including:
- Fire executive from the Texas Fire Chiefs Academy
- Fire inspector and investigator
- An Associate of Fire Science and Safety Technology
“We are excited to have James officially take on the role of Fire Chief,” City Manager Dave Beach said. “His commitment to the community's safety, coupled with his vast knowledge of fire and emergency medical services makes him the perfect choice to lead the department.”
