Columbia Southern University student Riley Collins has always been fascinated by public safety and the positive impact first responders have on their communities. For as long as he can remember, he carried a dream of becoming a first responder and serving the very community where he was raised.
He enrolled in the emergency services program offered through his high school in Pennsylvania, a decision that gave him the opportunity to build knowledge and skills in the profession. However, completing an internship with Middletown Township Fire and Emergency Services while still in high school solidified the decision to enter the fire service.
“Following my internship, I continued with Middletown Township Fire and Emergency Services as a part-time firefighter before eventually being hired full time,” he said. “Looking back, it’s incredibly rewarding to see that childhood dream come full circle. Today, I have the privilege of serving the same community that inspired me to pursue this profession, and that’s something I never take for granted.”
The experience exposed him to different aspects beyond emergency response, such as fire prevention, inspections, investigations and public education.
“It showed me that the fire service isn’t just about responding to emergencies; it’s about preventing them and making communities safer every day.”
Educating the Community About Fire Prevention
Riley became interested in educating the public about fire prevention, which inspired him to get involved with Bucks County Fire Professionals Aiding Children (Bucks County Fire PAC).
“I became involved with the Bucks County Fire PAC because I recognized the important role education plays in preventing fires before they occur, particularly when working with children and families,” he explained. “Throughout my career in fire prevention and public education, I have seen firsthand how early intervention and education can make a lasting difference. As I became more involved with the organization, I had the opportunity to contribute ideas, assist with community outreach initiatives and help shape future programming.”
Earlier this year, Riley was elected president of the organization. In this role, he strives to advance the organization’s mission of youth fire setting prevention, education and intervention throughout Bucks County. His responsibilities include developing educational programs, coordinating community outreach events, building partnerships with fire departments and community organizations, and helping guide the organization’s long-term strategic direction.
“One of my primary goals is to continue expanding awareness and access to resources so that families, schools and emergency responders can recognize and address fire-setting behaviors early,” he said. “By focusing on education and intervention, we hope to prevent future incidents and ultimately make our communities safer.”
The Smoke Alarm Initiative
His dedication to fire prevention inspired the launch of a smoke alarm campaign offered by Middletown Township Fire and Emergency Services. This fire prevention program offers free smoke detectors to all residents.
“One of the initiatives I am most proud of has been helping lead our department’s smoke alarm campaign, which has resulted in the installation of more than 2,500 smoke alarms over the past five years for residents considered most at risk, including older adults, individuals with disabilities, and families facing financial hardship,” said Riley. “Working alongside members of our department and community partners, we identify residents who can benefit from the program, install smoke alarms at no cost, and provide fire safety education during each visit.”
Over the years in the fire service, Riley has learned that educating the public about fire prevention is just as important as responding to an emergency.
“A working smoke alarm provides critical early warning during a fire, and knowing this initiative has helped make thousands of homes safer while educating residents on fire prevention is incredibly rewarding,” he stated. “Programs like this remind me that some of the most meaningful work in the fire service happens before an emergency ever occurs. Helping prevent fires and protecting lives through education is just as important as responding when people call 911.”
A Milestone Promotion
Riley was promoted to lieutenant with Middletown Township Fire and Emergency Services in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, making him the first career lieutenant in the department’s history.
“My journey with the department began as a high school intern, and I later progressed to part-time firefighter, full-time firefighter and now lieutenant,” he said. “Prior to my promotion, the department’s career staffing consisted of firefighters and a fire chief, making the creation of this position a significant milestone for both the organization and me personally.”
Riley is also a proud alumnus of CSU, and after earning his bachelor’s degree in fire administration, he reenrolled to pursue a Master of Public Administration degree with a focus on emergency services management.
“Looking back on that journey, earning this position ranks among my proudest accomplishments, alongside earning my bachelor’s degree from Columbia Southern University and continuing to pursue my master’s degree,” said Riley. “It represents years of hard work, continuous learning and a commitment to serving the community that first inspired me to pursue a career in the fire service.”
Riley has achieved many accomplishments during his seven-year tenure with the Middletown Township Fire and Emergency Services. In addition, he has been a member of the William Penn Volunteer Fire Company for 10 years, where he previously served as lieutenant and captain.
“Being involved in these groups has allowed me to grow professionally, give back to my community and collaborate with others who are equally passionate about public safety and service,” he stated. “CSU has provided me with the tools, knowledge and support to grow as a professional and as a person. I hope my experience encourages other students and public safety professionals to pursue their education, embrace leadership opportunities and continue striving to make a difference in the communities they serve.”
Riley is also a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Pennsylvania Association of Arson Investigators, International Association of Arson Investigators, National Association of Fire Investigators, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians.
“If there’s one thing I hope readers remember, it’s that making a difference doesn’t always happen during the biggest moments,” he said. “Sometimes it’s educating a child, mentoring a coworker, installing a smoke alarm or simply taking the time to help someone who needs it. Those small moments have shaped my career, and they continue to remind me why I chose the fire service in the first place.”
Disclaimer: These testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes.
CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.
