David Simpson headshot

DAVID SIMPSON

Chief Operating Officer

David Simpson serves as Chief Operating Officer at Camp Fire First Texas since December 2023.

In his role as COO, David oversees the insurance, maintenance, use, and access of all Council facilities that include Camp El Tesoro, a 223-acre camp facility, the Camp Fire Resource Center and attached childcare facility both on Meacham Blvd as well as Diamond Hill Station, a free-standing afterschool and summer program site in Fort Worth.

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, David holds a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Phoenix, a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Technology Management from the University of Arizona, and a Nonprofit Management Certification from Arizona State University. He is currently pursuing his Master in Business Administration from Western Governors University, graduating in summer 2024.

David started his professional career in programming and direct service for nearly 12 years before switching over to the administration and operations “side of the house” almost five years ago. He believes that having experience on both sides has helped him build a holistic approach when leading any operations team.

Prior to joining Camp Fire, David was Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Teach for America in Dallas, where he provided oversight and guidance to the operations subteam, including people and culture, finance and administration, marketing and communications, and strategic initiatives. He previously held positions with HopeWorks, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Arizona, and the Boys and Girls Club of Tucson.

David gets the opportunity to build a strong administrative and operational infrastructure that helps the Camp Fire team do their work to the best of their ability, removing as many obstacles as possible. He believes that those who work with our youth and families do necessary and important work, and he is proud to be a part of the Camp Fire mission and its programming.

When he is not working, David enjoys spending time with his family and watching a great movie. He is married to a wonderful wife, and they have a 6-year-old daughter. David is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) and believes in the value of having a community of caring adults to help you reach your full potential.

Senior Quote

When you can’t control what’s happening, challenge yourself to control the way you respond to what’s happening. That’s where your power is.