2026 Outstanding Alum: Carlos Alcantar

Born in Southern California and later raised in the small rural town of Alturas, Carlos Alcantar's path to leadership started in childhood. He was one of nine children and raised by a hardworking immigrant mother.

Alcantar remembers, around the age of five, his mother buying a single bicycle for the family to share. One day while riding it, he was hit by a car, which landed on his arm. The Los Angeles Fire Department was called, and when they arrived, Alcantar was inspired.

"They looked like superheroes," he said. "I was crying and scared, and they took care of me…From that day on, I knew I wanted to help people."

Years later, just as he was preparing to take a ranch job after high school, he received a call offering him a seasonal firefighting position with the Bureau of Land Management. Alcantar accepted and worked seasonal assignments while attending the fire academy at Butte College.

In 2000, he was hired by CAL FIRE and served in numerous roles, until 2020, when he was encouraged to return to college for his associate degree to continue moving up in his career. At the time, Alcantar was in his 40s. Returning to school wasn't appealing, but with the help of Julie Scarpelli, the Director of Admissions and Records at the time, he returned to Butte College and earned an associate degree.

Scarpelli, a close friend of Alcantar's, has not only witnessed his dedication to education but also his dedication to his community.

"Beyond his professional duties, Carlos consistently goes out of his way to help others," she said. "Whether it's stopping to assist a stranded driver or lending a hand to someone in need, he embodies the spirit of service both on and off duty."

Alcantar now serves as assistant chief for the Santa Clara Unit of CAL FIRE, overseeing operations in Morgan Hill, California. Looking back, he recognizes that his decision to return to school for his associate degree changed his life.

"In my family, only my brother and I graduated from college," he said. "We were once told in high school we wouldn't amount to anything. That degree proved otherwise."

Alcantar, through all his hard work and determination, rose from a lifetime of challenges to a position of honor and influence. He hopes that others who are struggling will see his success and feel inspired.

"College can be accessible. Opportunities exist," he said. "But most importantly, don't let the negativity destroy you. Be kind. Work hard…If I can do it, anybody can."

Alcantar will be honored at this year's Butte College Gala on Saturday, April 25, at 5:30 p.m. at Manzanita Place. The annual event celebrates outstanding alumni whose lives and work reflect the transformative power of education and service. Tickets to the event are available now at butte.edu/gala.