Led to join the fire service at the age of 17, Chief Collard began his career in 1988 as a volunteer firefighter in the San Antonio area. Too young to even drive a fire engine at that time, he went on to graduate from the fire academy in 1990 and EMT school in 1991. Shortly after graduating from EMT school, he began his career as a full-time firefighter in Harker Heights, Texas.

During his 30+ year career, he has served in both combination and all full-time career organizations, acquiring a diverse background in the culture of the Texas fire service. In 1994, he achieved EMT-Paramedic certification and is now a Licensed Paramedic. In addition to holding numerous professional certifications with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Emergency Services Administration from the University of North Texas at Dallas.

Additionally, he possesses professional designations as a Fire Service Chief Executive Officer from Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, Certified Fire Executive through the Texas Fire Chiefs Association, and Certified Fire Officer from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

He serves on several boards, committees, and commissions, including the Executive Board of the Texas Fire Chiefs Association as the Treasurer.