The firehouse serves as more than just a base of operations for firefighters; it is the very heart and soul of our profession.
It is at the firehouse that you develop both professionally, but more importantly personally. From day one, the lessons learned and the experience gained there will help shape you into leading a positive life.
Let’s explore the transformation of a firefighter into a company officer, a journey marked by personal growth, leadership development, and an unwavering commitment to upholding the cherished traditions and culture within the fire service.
The Heart of Firefighting: The Firehouse
The firehouse – first let’s take notice that I refer to it as a firehouse and not as a fire station. The reason why is because it is exactly that. Firefighters spend a majority of their lives at the firehouse. It is not your typical office. It is more than just a building; it’s a living monument to the history and traditions of firefighting. It’s where the legacy of the fire service is preserved and passed down from one generation of firefighters to the next. The sense of camaraderie, professionalism, and duty to serve the community is cultivated within these walls. That’s why you should call it a firehouse and not just refer to it as a station. It’s more than that. It’s where firefighters make memories, forge relationships, and develop into experienced leaders.
The Role of the Firehouse
A firefighter’s connection to the firehouse is similar to a family bond. It is here that probies are initiated into the brotherhood and sisterhood of firefighters. The firehouse is where they learn not only the practical aspects of their job but also the intangible values about life.
Like an older sibling, veteran firefighters should share their experiences and wisdom with new firefighters. By doing so, they pass on the traditions that have been upheld for generations. These traditions are not relics of the past; they are a vital part of a firefighter’s identity and serve as a constant reminder of the sacrifices and dedication that come with the job.
Beginning: The Evolution
The journey from being a wide-eyed probie to a seasoned firefighter is a transformative one. It involves learning the ropes, mastering the technical skills required for firefighting, and, perhaps most importantly, internalizing the values and spirit of the fire service. This evolution doesn’t happen overnight, but should be a gradual process that takes place under the watchful eye of experienced mentors. It should be noted that this journey is not an easy one. It takes going through hardships, setbacks, long hours, training, and experience before one should consider themselves a “seasoned” or “veteran” firefighter.
If you aspire to lead others and one day ride the front seat, you should have attained both the professional and personal growth needed to become a successful leader. In my opinion and experience, successful leaders have the following traits:
- Sympathy: The ability to show compassion for others.
- Empathy: The ability to relate to others.
One gains those traits through things such as hardships, education, and experience.
Training: The Pillar of Proficiency
Training is the bedrock upon which a firefighter’s career is built. It is the key to developing the skills necessary to excel in the multifaceted role of a company officer. While initial training focuses on firefighting techniques, as firefighters progress in our careers our training expands to include leadership and interpersonal skills.
Technical Training
At the core of a firefighter’s training are the technical skills required to combat fires and respond to emergencies effectively. This includes mastering the use of firefighting equipment, understanding fire behavior, and practicing rescue techniques. Firefighters are trained to perform these tasks with precision under intense pressure.
Leadership Development
As firefighters rise through the ranks, leadership development should become a critical component of our training. Leadership development teaches us how to make crucial decisions during high-stress situations, manage resources efficiently, and ensure the safety of our team and the public. Leadership training prepares firefighters for the responsibilities they will shoulder as company officers. Below are some suggestions of training courses and books that will help a person who is aspiring to lead others.
| COURSES | BOOKS |
| Fire Officer I | Command Presence by Frank Ricci |
| Fire Officer II | Step Up and Lead by Frank Viscuso |
| Company Officer Development by Jason Hoevelmann | From Buddy to Boss by Chase Sargent |
| ICS 100, 200, 300, & 700 | Pride & Ownership by Rick Lasky |
| Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) | Rescue Me by Jesse Quinalty |
Interpersonal Skills
Effective communication and interpersonal skills are vital for any leader, and firefighters are no exception. They must be able to communicate clearly, motivate their team, and build trust among their colleagues. These skills are honed through two vital methods:
- Education (Training): Attending not only firefighter development courses, but also leadership development courses, are key ingredients in the recipe for successful preparation of a leader. However, attending classes, and/or reading, is only half of what is needed.
- Practical Experience: Applying the skills needed in the field, in the firehouse, and with your people daily is the other half of the necessary development for any leader. Taking what you learn through education and through failures and applying that is what will separate you from those who seek a leadership position only for prestige.
The Rise to Company Officer
Advancing from the position of a firefighter to that of a company officer represents a significant milestone in one’s career. This transition takes one from being a member of a crew to becoming a leader responsible for guiding and shaping a team that embodies the core principles of the fire service. This shift is not only about preserving tradition but also about charting a course for future generations of firefighters.
As firefighters make that transition from firefighter to company officer, they should go into it with an open mind. Similar to when they first arrived as a firefighter, they should be like a sponge, only this time soaking in the wants of their crew and also the needs of the organization. This is accomplished in a few ways, but the one that has worked for me is by valuing the culture.
Value The Culture
Valuing the culture is something every new firefighter should do, but it’s a must for new company officers. Taking the initiative to learn what your crew and the department takes pride in is important. Learn why the company logo is what it is. Why do you carry the equipment you do? Why is your apparatus the color it is? Seriously, all these things matter! These are things that firefighters take a lot of pride in. If you are going to take on this position of influence, you should first know what matters most to your team before you can introduce any improvements or adjustments.
The Role of Company Officers
Company officers, which typically include lieutenants, captains, and sometimes battalion chiefs, occupy an essential position within the fire service hierarchy. They serve as mid-level managers, directly influencing the performance and morale of their teams. Their responsibilities extend beyond operational tasks and encompass the following:
- Fostering the growth and development of new firefighters.
- Establishing mutual trust with their crews.
- Understanding the importance and the difference between sympathy and empathy.
Operational Leadership
Company officers are responsible for leading their teams during emergency responses. They must make split-second decisions that can mean the difference between life and death. This requires not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of team dynamics and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Mentorship and Development
One of the most significant responsibilities of company officers is mentoring their crew, especially the younger firefighters. Company officers pass on their knowledge, experience, and the values of the fire service to the next generation of firefighters. This mentorship helps firefighters grow both professionally and personally, ensuring the continuity of the fire service’s traditions and culture.
Trust and Credibility: The Cornerstone of Leadership
When it comes to company officers in the fire service, there is no room for a fake leader. Earning trust and establishing credibility are paramount for company officers. In a profession where teamwork is essential, firefighters must have unwavering confidence in their leaders. Company officers must be seen as reliable, fair, and most importantly capable. That’s essential if they are to foster cooperation and team cohesion, qualities that are vital for any high-performing team.
Leading by Example
Company officers set the tone for their teams through their actions and behaviors. They must lead by example, demonstrating dedication to their craft and a commitment to the values of the fire service. Leading by example earns the respect and trust of subordinates.
Building Relationships
Effective leadership also involves building positive relationships within the team. Company officers must be approachable, open to feedback, and willing to listen to the concerns and ideas of their team members. These relationships are built on a foundation of trust and mutual respect.
Setting the Standard
Company officers play an essential role in setting performance standards for their teams. These standards are not mere guidelines but reflect the fire service’s commitment to excellence. They serve as a benchmark for performance, ensuring that every member of the team strives for the highest level of proficiency.
Setting and maintaining high standards is a continuous process. It involves,
- Communication: Clearly communicate the mission needs and the culture’s expectations.
- Assessment: Provide regular and constructive feedback.
- Accountability: Establish an environment where the entire team is accountable for one another.
Company officers must be fair but firm in their approach to standards. They should recognize and reward exceptional performance while addressing deficiencies promptly and constructively.
Creating a Culture of Excellence
By setting high standards, Company officers create a culture of excellence within their units. They inspire their team members to continuously improve their skills and uphold the values of the fire service. This culture of excellence extends beyond the firehouse and positively impacts the entire community.
The Symbolism of Riding the Front Seat
Riding in the front seat holds a special significance in the life of a company officer. It symbolizes their leadership role within the team and their responsibility for the safety and success of their crew during emergencies. Front seat riders must be decisive and experienced, making critical decisions on apparatus positioning, tactical implementations, and emergency mitigation. The front seat is where company officers make critical decisions that can have a profound impact on the outcome of incidents.
“Front seat riders must be decisive and experienced…”
The Weight of Responsibility
Sitting in the front seat carries a weight of responsibility. Company officers must coordinate their team’s actions, communicate with other responding units, and adapt to rapidly changing situations. It’s a position that demands a combination of technical expertise, leadership ability, and an understanding of the challenges faced in the field.
Leading in Times of Crisis
During emergencies, company officers must lead with confidence and clarity. They are the ones who ensure that their team members are safe, that the public is protected, and that the mission is accomplished. This leadership role is a culmination of years of training, experience, and dedication to the fire service.
Conclusion
The journey from the firehouse to the front seat is a journey of profound significance for firefighters. It represents not only the evolution of their skills and responsibilities but also their unwavering commitment to the heritage of the fire service. This path is marked by continuous growth, leadership development, and a dedication to upholding the values and traditions of those who came before us.
In this journey, the firehouse serves as the foundation, where firefighters learn the traditions, values, and sense of duty that define their profession. Training—encompassing technical skills, leadership development, and interpersonal growth—equips them for the role of a company officer.
Company officers, in turn, play a critical role in shaping the future of the fire service. They lead by example, earn trust and credibility, set high standards, and symbolize the unwavering commitment to service. Riding in the front seat is not just a position; it’s a symbol of leadership and a position of influence.
The evolution from firefighter to company officer is a testament to the dedication of firefighters to their craft. It ensures that the fire service maintains its traditions and values while adapting to the evolving needs of society. As we look to the future, this journey continues, as each generation of firefighters takes its place in the front seat, ready to lead and serve.
BIO
Dave McGlynn brings more than two decades of expertise to the Fire & Emergency Services field, with a career spanning municipal and federal roles. Presently, he leads the Letterkenny (PA) Fire Department as fire chief, following his roles as operations chief and training officer. His career path has also led him to the West Point (NY) Fire Department at the US Military Academy as training chief, captain at the Carlisle Barracks (PA) Fire Department at the US Army War College, and roles as a firefighter and company officer with the Iselin (NJ) Fire District 9. Dave has shared his knowledge as a featured speaker at FDIC International for the past six years and serves on the advisory board for FDIC and Fire Engineering. An accomplished fire instructor and public speaker, Dave has contributed articles to Fire Engineering magazine and FirefighterNation, and hosts the Fire Engineering podcast The Training Officer. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Fire & Emergency Services Administration and is advancing his education with a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership. Dave is also the author of The Training Officer: Do You Have What It Takes?, encapsulating his extensive experience and insights into the field of fire & emergency services.
