Through Fire And Service: Joe Cable’s (’02) Call To Protect The Community
March 17, 2026 | 2-3 min read
At the age of five, Joe Cable (‘02) knew he wanted to be a firefighter. That childhood dream stayed with him as he grew up, but turning it into a full-time profession felt out of reach. When he arrived at Florida College, Cable chose a different path, pursuing a teaching degree with plans to coach high school athletics.
Everything shifted when he joined Camp Friends. While on tour, Cable met some Christians who were professional firefighters. They showed him the fire service was not only viable, but a career that could be pursued with both professional excellence and deep faith. Encouraged by their example, Cable applied to volunteer with the Temple Terrace Fire Department, a decision that set the course for more than two decades of service.
Today, Cable serves in that same department as Battalion Chief, functioning as a shift commander. He oversees daily operations across multiple stations and personnel, bridging administration and field operations, managing resources, and running incident command. The role keeps him close to the crews and calls that first drew him to the profession.
One unique aspect of Cable’s career is that he serves in the very community where he lives, worships, and maintains deep relationships. Over the years, he has responded to emergencies involving individuals he knows through Florida College and local congregations.
“When you arrive and see the face of someone you share faith with, the moment changes,” Cable said. “It is nothing short of God’s involvement in our lives and Him putting us in places we need to be.”
Reflecting on 20 years of service, Cable spoke about the weight of responsibility firefighters carry as they uphold their oath and code.
“We want to help. We want to make a difference. And we’re willing to take on the challenge.”
At its core, the profession demands integrity, humility, and the ability to shoulder difficult circumstances with calmness and clarity.
“Firefighters don’t run. We move with purpose,” he said, a distinction that reflects discipline over panic and clear thinking over fear.
Cable is quick to note that his ability to serve with confidence and focus has never been his alone. Behind every shift, promotion, and long night away, his wife, Bonny, has provided steady encouragement and stability: caring for their children, managing the demands of home, and urging him to pursue opportunities for growth.
While he continues to serve at the fire station and at home, Cable also invests intentionally in the Florida College community. Over the years, he has taught CPR to students, faculty, and dorm parents, spoken in classes, and mentored several young men. His influence reaches those preparing to step into their own professions and callings. Through both leadership and example, he demonstrates how vision, discipline, and humility can make a meaningful impact.
Pictured below: Cable in action
