A native of Houston, Texas, Patrick “Marty” Lancton has spent over two decades serving his community on the front lines and in civic and charitable leadership. A decorated firefighter, association president, and proven advocate for working families, Marty has built a career defined by courage, integrity, and results. Marty began his service in 2000 as a firefighter and paramedic in Cedar Park, Texas, later joining the West University Fire Department before ultimately joining the Houston Fire Department, where he continues to serve today. His firsthand experience in public safety and emergency management drives his unwavering commitment to those who protect and serve.

In 2016, Marty was elected President of the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association, where he fought tirelessly for the rights, safety, and dignity of Houston’s first responders. His leadership expanded statewide when he was elected Vice President of the Texas State Association of Fire Fighters in 2017. Marty is also a dedicated civic leader serving as the Chairman of the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association Charitable Foundation, a role he has held since 2015. Under his direction, the foundation has delivered critical support to firefighters and families facing medical hardship, natural disaster, and economic insecurity. He also founded the Red Hot Gala, raising nearly $5 million to honor and support Houston firefighters and underserved children in the community.

Respected nationally and internationally, Marty is a Senior Fellow with both the American Leadership Forum and the British American Project, where he collaborates with leaders across multiple sectors to advance innovative solutions in public service and community leadership. At his core, Marty believes in servant leadership, a philosophy that guides both his public and personal life. Grounded in the motto “Men for Others,” he has earned a reputation for putting principle before politics and people before power. When he’s not advocating for Houston’s working families or responding to calls, Marty enjoys cheering on the Astros and Rockets and spending time in the city he’s proud to call home.