Faculty Member
Eric J. Russell is a Utah Valley University professor in the Department of Emergency Services. His writings and research examine the influence of homeland security education, aviation emergency services, and servant leadership on organizations and individuals. He is an author and researcher with over 80 peer-reviewed and trade publications and three (3) books_
The Desire to Serve-Servant Leadership for the Fire and Emergency Services (Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership)
In Command of Guardians-Executive Servant Leadership for the Community of Responders, 2nd Ed. (Springer)
The Aviation Fire Officer Reference (Fire Engineering Books)
His work has appeared in Crisis Response, Fire Engineering, Firehouse, the Aviation Fire Journal, and Leadership Excellence. Eric has spoken and consulted nationally about servant leadership, aircraft rescue firefighting (ARFF), emergency services operations, and homeland security. He serves as the point of contact (PoC) and subject matter expert (SME) for the US Fire Administration's FESHE Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Management courses.
Professional Experience and Training
Eric retired early as a Captain from the Department of Defense (DoD)/United States Air Force (USAF) Fire and Emergency Services, with a combined service record that included USAF Active Duty and USAF reserves, as well as DoD service. His professional credentials include DoD/USAF Rescue Technician, Hazardous Materials Technician, Hazardous Materials Incident Commander, Divemaster, and NREMT. Additionally, Eric is a Certified Homeland Protection Professional (CHPP) with the National Sheriff’s Association’s Global Society of Homeland Security Professionals (GSHSP) and was awarded a Graduate Certificate in Homeland Security Studies from Michigan State University (MSU).
Major: Counterterrorism
Major: Organizational Leadership
Major: Executive Fire Service Leadership
Introduction to Homeland Security, Summer 2026
Introduction to Homeland Security, Summer 2026
Introduction to Homeland Security, Summer 2026
A cash award given to employees who go beyond what is normally expected (UVU Supervisor Guidebook). Award given for BAP degree development.