IAFC | International Association of Fire Chiefs
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide; our members are the world's leading experts in firefighting, emergency medical services, terrorism response, hazardous materials spills, natural disasters, search and rescue, and public safety policy.

You're the Fire Chief; Now What? Guidance for New and Interim Fire Chiefs
Guidance for New and Interim Fire Chiefs This document was developed by the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS) of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), in partnership with the Executive Fire Officers (EFO) Section of the IAFC, to provide guidance for a new or interim chief’s first 100 days.

Learn & Develop
Fire Service Executive Development Institute Application-based program that provide new and aspiring chiefs with the tools needed for a successful and productive tenure. Learn more

About IAFC - International Association of Fire Chiefs
Our Mission To provide leadership to current and future career, volunteer, fire-rescue and EMS chiefs, chief fire officers, company officers, and managers of emergency service organizations throughout the international community through vision, information, education, services, and representation to enhance their professionalism and capabilities.

Pierce and IAFC Honor Extraordinary Leadership with 2025 Fire Chief of ...
The 2025 IAFC Fire Chief of the Year awards were presented during the Fire Rescue International (FRI) event in Orlando, Florida. “We are honored to recognize two extraordinary leaders whose passion for the fire service and dedication to their communities set the standard for us all,” said Bob Schulz, president of Pierce Manufacturing.

You’re the fire chief now wha
The first 100 days of a new or interim fire chief’s tenure are critical. This guidance is a terrific resource to help new leaders succeed. It will raise the level of professionalism across the fire and emergency service and underscores the importance of working together and sharing our knowledge and experiences.

Chief Officers - International Association of Fire Chiefs
The Chief Officer Leadership Symposium program consists of two levels, one for those new to the role and the other for more veteran officers. Attendees learn from instructors with years of fire and emergency service and life experience in areas such as community risk reduction, human resources, operations, and health and safety.

Questions for a New Fire Chief to Ask
Questions for a New Fire Chief to Ask You have been appointed/elected to the position of fire chief for your local fire department. Congratulations. In many cases the newly appointed/elected fire chief may experience challenges in acquiring knowledge about their organization. The 5th bugle on the fire chief’s badge carries significant responsibility and duties that must be carried out. Many ...

Fire-Rescue International 2026 - iafc.org
FRI attracts hundreds of exhibitors to showcase the newest fire service innovations in apparatus, technology, equipment, gear and more. If you're a fire/EMS chief, chief officer or company officer - this is YOUR conference for leadership education. Event Details Topics: Wildfire Volunteer & Workforce Solutions Traffic Safety Safety & Health ...

Submit Your Nominations for the 2025 Fire Chief of the Year Awards
- The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Fire Chief of the Year Awards. Since 1996, this prestigious award has recognized one volunteer and one career fire chief for their leadership, innovation, professional development, integrity, public service, and contributions to the fire service.