Odessa Fire Rescue's first-ever female captain is UTPB Alumn Kayla Hogan.
Captain Hogan attended UTPB from 2006-2010, where she played softball all four years, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminology and minor in psychology.

Hogan didn’t always know she wanted to be a firefighter, but she knew she wanted to serve in law enforcement.
“When I graduated Odessa Fire Rescue was hiring, and I just put my best foot forward and now I’m here,” said Hogan.
Having now been with OFR for 14 years, what she loves most about her job is helping others.
“Being who people call in their time of need, being able to help them when they’re stressed, and being the calm in their storm,” said Hogan.
Hogan says it’s great seeing how much UTPB has grown over the years.
“UTPB offers a lot of programs. It’s a small enough school where you feel connected with all your professors, but it’s a big enough school where you can get an education and they have all the sports and activities you would want,” said Hogan.
Hogan is also a part of the OFR Pipe and Drum Corps which brings honor to those who have fallen in the line of duty.
She feels honored to have her new title and badge.
“I’ve had a lot of people before me that have shown me that this position is something to be reached for. I’ve had a lot of people believe in me and I want to wear the badge proudly and just represent what the title stands for,” said Hogan.
In her new role she hopes to pass on the knowledge she’s learned over the years.
“I looked to older firemen with experience and guidance to bring me up and I just want to follow that similar model,” said Hogan.