Jacob Briones was raised on the Soboba Indian Reservation and worked for the Soboba Fire Department since its inception in 2014. Earlier this year, he began working as a Fire Captain with San Bernardino CalFire.
“Soboba has provided me with the opportunity to build a solid fire career foundation. Working my way up the command chain to captain over the last 10 years there, has definitely given me the skill set to be able to lateral into such a demanding position,” Briones said.
CalFire captains’ main duties are to supervise crews and/or engines companies and share in the management of stations, fire apparatus and equipment. There are also captain specialty assignments like peace officer, dispatch, air attack, helitack, instructor and supervising conservation camp crews. Briones accepted a position at Fenner Canyon Conservation Camp #41.
“Deciding to make the move to CalFire did not come easy; I honestly felt like I would be with Soboba for the rest of my professional career,” Briones said. “Promoting to Captain, I realized that there was plenty more to accomplish if I wanted to advance in my profession any further. CalFire’s footprint and vast resources seemed like the perfect move; it has opened many more doors for career development and advancement.”
According to San Bernardino CalFire Public Information Officer Chloe Castillo, Fenner Canyon Conservation Camp #41 is jointly operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). The camp’s primary mission is to provide incarcerated fire crews for assignments in Los Angeles, Kern and San Bernardino counties, however, crews can be dispatched throughout the state. Fenner Canyon Conservation Camp is located in the city of Valerymo in Los Angeles County.
The primary mission of the Conservation (Fire) Camp Program is to support state, local and federal government agencies as they respond to emergencies including fires, floods, and other natural disasters. Additionally, hand crews respond to rescue efforts in local parks or flood suppression. All camps are minimum-security facilities and staffed with correctional and fire staff.
Briones still resides at the Soboba Indian Reservation with his wife, Faith. They have four children who are all pursuing their personal goals. In the past, Briones has served on the Soboba Tribal Council and the Soboba Foundation board. In his spare time, he can be found at the gym, working on his personal health and fitness goals.
To learn more about Fenner Canyon Conservation Camp #41, please visit www.cdcr.ca.gov/facility-locator/conservation-camps/fenner-canyon.
