Doug Watler
Former Captain, Broward County Fire Rescue

Doug Watler recently retired as captain with Broward County Fire Rescue. In his 38-1/2 years of service, he played an active role in helping guide institutional investments with The City of Deerfield Beach Pension Fund, The Broward County Firefighters Health Trust Fund, and The City of Deltona Firefighter Pension Fund. 

Mr. Watler has been very active politically, serving The Florida Professional Firefighters 26,000 members as district vice president representing Broward County. Helping to protect pension benefits and firefighter rights is his passion. He currently serves as an emeritus DVP.

Mr. Watler was recognized by the State of Florida Legislature in 2015 as the Florida Firefighter of the Year.

In 2020, Mr. Watler was appointed to the IAFF Innovation and Research Transition team. Only three of 340,000 IAFF members were selected to help chart a path for future innovation under the leadership of General President Ed Kelly and General Secretary/Treasurer Frank Lima. 

Mr. Watler continually pushes the envelope of the status quo in seeking companies that can treat cancer, toxins, PFOS, and PTSD that affect first responders and veterans.

To find cutting-edge ideas, Mr. Watler has ventured deep into the alternative/VC markets, attending many conferences with family offices to meet with companies that can help save lives and rehabilitate first responders getting back to work. 

Mr. Watler is a frequent speaker and moderator for a variety of financial, pension, and family office conferences.