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  In part 2 we discussed the three pillars for building the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to become a leader. Today we will look at four areas of importance when taking on a leadership role. Once the aspiring leader has addressed these areas, the next step is...

Years ago I had the good fortune to visit the Philippines while serving as a Midshipman aboard USS TARAWA (LHA-1). I recall a colorful, vibrant place and friendly people. Several months ago a massive typhoon – more powerful than any on record – drew the Philippines and the...

Becoming a Leader Before you can lead, you must follow. This is, perhaps, one of the most important aspects of becoming a leader. Leadership is a learning process, meaning increased proficiency in leadership can be developed. As a young firefighter with aspirations of becoming a...

Fridays are dedicated to officer and firefighter leadership and development. In order to be an effective leader and a better fireground officer there are arguably many factors that can affect how you develop your administrative and operational skills. These articles are intented...

Building a Foundation For Success There have been a lot of discussions lately about all of the information and science towards firefighting. Fire service professionals, article writers, and web-sites are constantly reminding us of staying on top of our game in regards to strategy...

I believe fire service leadership is a continuous process that can be broken into four distinct steps. These steps are represented in what I call the “Fire Service Leadership Continuum.” The Four Steps #1 – Becoming A Leader This is the step that is the...

Just What Should They Be Doing? We often hear of the truck officer as a “supervisor” of the truck team. I have come to learn that this position requires far more than an ability to supervise or direct firefighters. They are a link in the chain, an integral part of the team, and...

Being a volunteer fire chief with a rather large response area (26 square miles); I am not only often first due on an alarm but also might be tasked with operating alone for some time before the “cavalry” shows up. Whether it be an EMS alarm, motor vehicle accident or structure...