Zachary Borja
Mesa,AZ
Summary
Mission-focused soldier with a diverse technical and military background, including service as a 12M - Army Firefighter and 14G - Air Defense Battle Management System Operator. Combat-deployed. Experienced in support of wildland fire suppression, emergency response, and team coordination under high-stress situations. Skilled HVAC apprentice technician in the City of Phoenix - Public Works Department with hands-on expertise in mechanical systems, diagnostics, and equipment maintenance. Brings a disciplined, safety-driven mindset and strong situational awareness to dynamic field environments. Proven ability to learn, adapt, communicate, and lead in both tactical and civilian settings.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
12M - Army Firefighter
US Army Reserve
Tustin, CA
10.2024 - Current
- Recently graduated DoW Fire & Emergency Services Certification Program (IFSAC & Pro Board Accredited); Apprentice Firefighter Course Graduate
- Technical training in fire fundamentals, search and rescue, and advanced suppression techniques
- Trained on high-risk simulators, including liquid evaporation explosion (BLEVE), vehicle fire/extrication, and aircraft fire scenarios
- Participated in wildland fire suppression operations
- Assisted in fire behavior observation and reporting to support tactical decision-making
- Maintained physical readiness and safety protocols in high-risk environments
- Collaborated with interagency teams during wildfire response and recovery missions; familiar with National Incident Management System (NIMS) structures
- Demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and situational awareness in dynamic wildfire conditions
HVAC Technician - Apprentice
City of Phoenix - Public Works
Phoenix, AZ
06.2023 - Current
- Work closely with Phoenix Fire Department and Police at their departments/precincts/stations. To include: parks, transfer stations, libraries, museums, and several commercial locations owned by the City of Phoenix.
- Performed troubleshooting on HVAC systems to accurately determine root cause of issues and identify any/all malfunctioning components.
- Installed new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in commercial/municipal buildings with precision and attention to detail.
- Performed comprehensive preventative maintenance on various types of HVAC equipment, prolonging their lifespan.
- Monitor and adjust building automation systems to optimize energy use and comfort.
- Respond to service calls and troubleshoot equipment issues across various city departments.
- Participate in technical training and apprenticeship rotations to build cross-functional expertise.
14G - Radar Operator
US Army
Fort Campbell North, KY
09.2019 - 06.2023
- Primary job was to provide service and maintenance for A/N-TPQ 64-A3 (Sentinel Radar). Its primary use is to track aerial vehicles in the sky and provide early warning to ground and air forces to determine if they are friend or foe.
- Oversaw emplacement, maintenance, and shutdown of radar systems, integrating multiple electronic components requiring operator intervention and critical problem-solving to maintain connectivity with other units.
- Conducted site assessments to ensure operational viability based on security and equipment functionality.
- Held Section Team Leadership Position. Responsible for the welfare and readiness of junior personnel. Conducted training and preparations for daily operations.
- Operated effectively in high-stress, combat environments, maintaining composure and mission focus under pressure; regularly trained in tactical drills and combat scenarios to ensure rapid response and operational readiness.
Education
DoW Fire/Emergency Services Certification Program -
Louis F. Garland Department of War (DoW) Fire Academy
Goodfellow AFB, TX05.2026
EMT Course Completion -
Phoenix Medical Training Center
Tempe, AZ07.2025
Journeyman Certification - HVAC
Arizona Pipe Trades Association
Phoenix, AZ06.2027
High School Diploma -
Mesa High School
Mesa, AZ05.2019
Skills
- Fire Suppression
- Specialized Rescue
- Technical Knowledge (ie Fire I & II, HAZMAT, ARFF)
- Emergency Response
- Stress tolerance and resilience
- Fitness and agility
- HVAC and refrigeration systems
- Technical troubleshooting
Timeline
12M - Army Firefighter
US Army Reserve
10.2024 - Current
HVAC Technician - Apprentice
City of Phoenix - Public Works
06.2023 - Current
14G - Radar Operator
US Army
09.2019 - 06.2023
DoW Fire/Emergency Services Certification Program -
Louis F. Garland Department of War (DoW) Fire Academy
EMT Course Completion -
Phoenix Medical Training Center
Journeyman Certification - HVAC
Arizona Pipe Trades Association
High School Diploma -
Mesa High School