Meet Our Faculty
Dedicated and Experienced Instruction
COCC's Fire Science faculty are skilled professionals with strong ties to local fire
departments and experience in wildfire management. Our instructors bring practical,
real-world expertise into their classrooms and offer personalized mentoring focused
on student success. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a critical field. View
the Public Service Education Department Directory for a full listing of faculty and staff.
Advising Faculty Profiles
Paula Simone
Associate Professor; Public Service Education Department Chair
Email: psimone@cocc.edu
Paula holds an Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer degree from COCC, a bachelor's degree in general science from the University of Oregon, and a Master of Science in safety, security, and emergency management from Eastern Kentucky University.
Paula began her fire science career as a wildland firefighting crew boss for a private contractor. She considered a career as a fire behavior analyst and spent eight summers ast a fire lookout with the U.S. Forest Service, in addition to her commitment to her local structure fire agencies as a structure firefighter, but now considers the classroom her natural habitat. One of her favorite classes to teach is Fire & EMS College Success. "I love helping students discover their strengths academically and professionally," she says. "Together we can chart a course for success in their chosen field."
Ryan Gregor
Fire Science Program Director
Assistant Professor of Fire Science
Email: rgregor2@cocc.edu
Ryan began his career in emergency services in Colorado as a ski patroller and volunteer search and rescue technician. His love of the field led him to a career with a local fire department, where he served in multiple roles including firefighter, engineer, acting officer, and program manager. Alongside his fire service work, he gained valuable experience in patient care and transport through his work with a local EMS organization. Committed to firefighter education, Ryan held an adjunct faculty position at a regional community college, managing fire academies and teaching courses that enriched the skills of numerous current and aspiring firefighters. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Science Administration from Waldorf University.
Ryan recently joined COCC as a full-time faculty member and is excited to take on the role of director of the fire science program. He will soon complete his bachelor’s degree in Fire Science Administration, aligning with his goal to shape and train the next generation of firefighters and first responders.
“My favorite class to teach is fire academy because it allows for amazing opportunities watching students progress as firefighters and gives me the ability to teach in a hands-on manner, sharing my passion for the fire service,” shares Ryan. “One of the greatest feelings is watching students graduate and move forward in their careers.”