Mark A. Powell was born and raised in Dothan, Alabama. After graduating from Dothan High School, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserves where he served for 6 years. He attended Wallace Community College, specializing in emergency medical services.  He was certified as a paramedic and a firefighter for the State of Alabama.  He served as a firefighter with the Ozark Fire Department and then as a Captain with the Dothan Fire Department for over 22 years. He was then appointed as the Training Captain in his previous role with the Dothan Fire Department. He was the lead instructor for over 40 courses and 500 students including Firefighter I/II recruit schools.  He is also an instructor with the Alabama Fire College. He earned an Associate of Science from Troy University.

Mark is happily married to his beautiful wife Priscilla. He is a proud father of three children. He enjoys watching Alabama football and spending time with his family.