Ricky Vaughan has previously served as the Assistant Chief of Operations for Carrollton Fire Rescue since 1995 where he served in every rank up to Assistant Fire Chief.

Chief Vaughan also completed a second career in the naval reserves, where he retired after 22 years of service in 2010, which included a tour in Iraq (2005-2006). 

In addition to these and other leadership roles and numerous professional certifications, his educational background includes an associate degree in Fire Protection Technology from El Centro Community College, a bachelor’s degree in emergency management administration from West Texas A&M University, and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from Sam Houston State University with a concentration in Disaster and Emergency Management.

Chief Vaughan began his new role of Fire Chief of the Denton County Emergency Services District #1 in January 2023.