When You See The Results · Firefighter Career Connection

When You See The Results

Last night’s residential structure fire gave me a moment of reflection.

Several years ago, I felt I needed to respond to every significant incident because I needed to be there to make decisions… take command. I also knew our people were hoping I was coming. I still remember hearing comments like, “I was so glad when I saw you enroute on the MDT.”

Last night was different.

I arrived on scene and just stood there.

The incident ran smoothly.

People were confidently performing their roles.

Decisions were being made.

The transition from suppression to investigation happened seamlessly.

When the incident moved into the investigation phase, our Deputy Fire Marshal and a Shift Fire Prevention Specialist stepped in, took ownership, planned, and executed exactly what needed to be done. I was not needed.

Just as meaningful was seeing the strength of our relationships beyond our organization. Our neighboring agencies showed up without hesitation to assist, integrated seamlessly into the operation, and worked alongside our people as trusted partners. When the next call came in, another neighboring agency immediately picked it up for us without hesitation. No questions. No delay. That is what strong relationships look like.

And while a small part of me might miss being needed in that way, what a powerful feeling it is to see how far we have come.

This is what intentional leadership development looks like.

This is what investing in people looks like.

This is what trust, both internally and regionally, produces.

Skilled. Confident. Competent professionals… supported by equally committed partners.

Proud does not even begin to cover it.

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